PM Modi flags off modern Vande Bharat sleeper train; Railways plan more premium night services
India has marked a major milestone in railway modernisation with the launch of its first Vande Bharat sleeper train. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the train on January 17, 2026, from Malda Town railway station in West Bengal. The new service will run between Howrah (Kolkata) and Kamakhya (Guwahati), improving overnight travel between eastern India and the Northeast.
Railway officials said this launch expands the Vande Bharat network beyond daytime chair-car trains and focuses on comfortable long-distance night journeys.
PM Modi Flags Off Train, Railways Call It a Landmark Step
Prime Minister Modi flagged off the train during his visit to West Bengal and also inaugurated the return service from Guwahati virtually. Senior railway officials and ministers were present at the event.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the sleeper Vande Bharat shows the government’s efforts to improve Indian Railways. He added that more sleeper Vande Bharat trains will be introduced on other long-distance routes in the future.
Howrah–Kamakhya Route to Boost Northeast Connectivity
However sleeper Vande Bharat will operate on the Howrah–Kamakhya route, covering a distance of around 966 kilometres. Officials said the train aims to provide faster and more comfortable overnight travel compared to existing services.
According to Indian Railways, the train is expected to complete the journey in about 14 hours, which is nearly three hours faster than current premium trains on the same route.
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Speed and Operating Limits
The new sleeper train is built to reach a top speed of 180 kmph. However, railway authorities clarified that during regular operations, it will run at a speed of around 120–130 kmph, depending on track and signalling conditions. Officials stressed that passenger comfort and safety remain the top priority.
Coach Details and Passenger Capacity
The Vande Bharat sleeper train consists of 16 fully air-conditioned coaches.
One First AC coach, four AC 2-tier coaches, and eleven AC 3-tier coaches are there in the train. Altogether, it can carry around 823 passengers. Railways have specially designed the sleeping berths to make long overnight journeys more comfortable.
Comfortable and Modern Facilities
Indian Railways has improved passenger comfort by adding various modern elements to the train. These feature well-designed sleeping beds, automated sliding doors, and bio-vacuum toilets to keep things clean.
Additionally, coaches have LED display boards, USB charging outlets, and enhanced lighting with climate control.
CCTV cameras and emergency communication systems are also in place to ensure safety.
Officials said the use of soft lighting and a modern layout helps passengers rest well during night travel.
Advanced Safety Systems
The sleeper Vande Bharat train is equipped with the KAVACH automatic train protection system, which helps prevent accidents and improves safety.
Along with this, the train uses regenerative braking, which saves energy and supports smooth operations.
Fare and Booking Rules
According to railway sources, the sleeper Vande Bharat will follow a premium fare system because of the comfort and facilities it offers. As a result, only confirmed berths will be given, and there will be no RAC or waiting list like traditional sleeper trains. At the same time, the ticket prices will match the upgraded comfort and services provided on this train.
Plans to Expand Sleeper Vande Bharat Services
Indian Railways plans to roll out more Vande Bharat sleeper trains on other long-distance routes in the coming years. Officials said additional train sets are already under production as part of the broader rail modernisation programme.
Why This Launch Is Significant
Railway officials said this launch marks an important step in improving long-distance rail travel across India. By bringing together speed, safety and comfort, the Vande Bharat sleeper train gives passengers a modern option for overnight journeys. At the same time, it sets a new standard for Indian Railways and future train services.
