STN: Indian Railways has paused the rollout of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Rake, delaying its entry into commercial service. The prototype rake, earlier used for trials and public display, will not move into operations. Passengers will have to wait for the final version to be ready.
Sources indicate that the first prototype, though showcased widely, will not carry regular passengers. The decision comes as Indian Railways continues to refine the design and make technical improvements. Feedback from trials highlighted areas that need changes in safety, comfort, and efficiency.
Why the Delay Matters
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Rake was developed under the “Make in India” initiative. It promised a major upgrade for overnight train journeys. The train was designed with features such as noise insulation, modern interiors, and improved ride comfort.
However, Indian Railways decided to wait before deploying it. Officials want to ensure the sleeper version meets high standards before passengers board. The delay shows the focus on long-term quality rather than rushing into service.
Expert View on the Decision
Industry voices have supported the cautious approach. Commenting on the development, Mamta Shah, MD and CEO of Urban Infra Group, said the delay puts safety and reliability first. She added that the sleeper rake is a next-generation product. Getting the design right at the start will help build passenger trust.
Features Planned for the Final Model
The final version of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Rake will bring upgrades for long-distance travel. It is expected to include:
- Automatic doors
- Advanced suspension for smooth rides
- Bio-vacuum toilets
- Ambient lighting
- Better berth and seating design
These changes aim to make the train a strong alternative to Rajdhani and other premium services.
Expected Routes and Timeline
Although Indian Railways has not shared a fixed date, reports suggest the rollout may take place by mid or late 2025. When ready, the sleeper rakes will likely run on key routes such as:
- Delhi–Mumbai
- Delhi–Kolkata
- Bengaluru–Chennai
These routes see high passenger demand and will benefit most from faster overnight services.
Indian Railways’ Long-Term Goal
The delay reflects a broader goal. Indian Railways wants to strengthen its semi-high-speed network while ensuring passenger safety and comfort. The Vande Bharat Sleeper Rake will play a key role in this plan once it begins operations.
FAQs on Vande Bharat Sleeper Rake
A: The current Vande Bharat trains are chair car models meant for daytime travel. The sleeper rake will have berths for overnight journeys, offering better rest and comfort.
A: The sleeper version is being developed in partnership with Indian companies under the Make in India initiative. This includes Indian Railways’ production units and private sector partners.
A: Yes. The sleeper rake is being designed for semi-high-speed travel, which can reduce journey time compared to Rajdhani trains.
A: Reports suggest that the first batch may include 10 to 15 sleeper rakes, with more to be added in later phases.
A: While fares are not announced yet, they are likely to be higher than Rajdhani but lower than flight costs for the same routes.
