Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Fare | Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Launch: Indian Railways has completed testing, trials and safety certification of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train, clearing the way for its commercial launch on the Guwahati–Kolkata route, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday.
The inaugural service is expected to be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming days, marking a major milestone in India’s semi-high-speed rail journey.
Vande Bharat Sleeper tested today by Commissioner Railway Safety. It ran at 180 kmph between Kota Nagda section. And our own water test demonstrated the technological features of this new generation train. pic.twitter.com/w0tE0Jcp2h
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) December 30, 2025
Speaking at a press conference, Vaishnaw said the launch of the first Vande Bharat Sleeper train is likely within the next 15 to 20 days.
He described the sleeper version as the next phase in the evolution of Vande Bharat trains, noting that the chair car variants have received an overwhelming response across the country, creating strong demand for long-distance, next-generation trains.
Designed for Long-Distance Overnight Travel
Unlike the existing chair car versions, the Vande Bharat Sleeper has been designed specifically for journeys exceeding 1,000 kilometres, offering faster, safer and more comfortable overnight travel.
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The train is equipped with upgraded suspension systems, modern sleeper coaches and advanced safety technologies aimed at improving ride quality and passenger comfort on long routes.
Vaishnaw said the fare for the Guwahati–Howrah sector has been tentatively fixed at around ₹2,300 for 3AC. The 2AC fare is expected to be about ₹3,000, while First AC is proposed at nearly ₹3,600.
Highlighting the cost advantage, the minister pointed out that airfares on the same route often range between ₹6,000 and ₹10,000, positioning the Vande Bharat Sleeper as a more affordable alternative.
High-Speed Trials Cleared at 180 kmph
The sleeper train recently cleared its final high-speed trial under the supervision of the Commissioner of Railway Safety on the Kota–Nagda section.
During the trial, the train achieved a top speed of 180 kmph, with parameters such as braking efficiency, ride stability, vibration levels, safety systems and emergency response tested and found satisfactory.
The 16-coach sleeper rake includes a range of modern passenger amenities such as comfortable berths, automatic doors, modern toilets, CCTV surveillance, fire detection systems, digital passenger information displays and energy-efficient technologies.
Safety systems onboard include KAVACH, crashworthy couplers, enhanced fire protection, emergency communication units and dedicated facilities for Divyangjan passengers.
Expansion Plans Under Atmanirbhar Bharat
According to officials, around 12 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are expected to be inducted into the railway network by the end of this year, with faster expansion planned next year.
The rollout reinforces Indian Railways’ focus on safety, innovation and indigenous manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
