A New Era In Travel: Sleeper Vande Bharat To Challenge Flights In 2024

Early next year, India is poised to introduce a revolutionary long-distance train experience, with the sleeper version of the Vande Bharat. As the fifth anniversary of its launch approaches, Indian Railways is set to roll out a sleeper version of this modern marvel, promising world-class comfort and speed.

Vande Bharat's Evolution
Since its debut between Delhi and Varanasi in February 2019, Vande Bharat's design and interiors have seen continuous enhancements. Currently, there are 34 pairs of fully air-conditioned Vande Bharat trains operating nationwide, offering both chair car and executive class seating.

Sleeper Trains to Replace Rajdhani Express?
The introduction of sleeper facilities within Vande Bharat trains presents the possibility of replacing the famed Rajdhani Express trains while reducing travel time, provided the track infrastructure is upgraded. Significant improvements are underway for the Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Howrah routes, enabling trains to run at 160 kmph.

The New Vande Bharat Vande Bharat's new trains are now being introduced more rapidly with 8 cars per train, meeting the high demand across the country. With six to seven new trains added each month, occupancy rates often exceed 100%, despite slightly higher fares compared to other express trains.

Attention to Passenger Comfort
The sleeper version of Vande Bharat focuses on passenger comfort with innovative features, such as cabin ladders designed to ensure passengers' heads don't bump the ceiling while climbing to their upper berths. Expect better suspension and cabin lighting, with further improvements planned based on passenger feedback.

Vande Bharat trains are set to become the backbone of India's passenger transport system. The government aims to increase their numbers to 500 within the next three years, with a long-term target of 4,500 trains by 2047.

The Vande Bharat Advantage
Vande Bharat trains have the potential to reduce journey times significantly, by 25% to 45%, thanks to their ability to accelerate and decelerate faster. As India's broad gauge network undergoes full electrification, these trains can operate across all sections.

To achieve the full potential of Vande Bharat trains, upgrading the tracks is essential. The proposed Vision-2047 includes plans to construct 20,000km of elevated railway tracks by 2047, facilitating higher speeds and efficiency.

While Vande Bharat trains face competition from more economical mail and express trains and an improving highway network, railway officials remain confident in their appeal. Catering to a different clientele and boasting long waiting lists, Vande Bharat trains are set to thrive in the Indian rail travel landscape.