Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: A major update has emerged regarding the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav stated that the necessary retrofitting of the country's first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is in its final stages. Technical deficiencies discovered after the train's testing are being rectified. The Railway Minister clarified, "We don't believe in shortcuts. Making travel comfortable and safe is our priority." He confirmed that the train will be operational for passengers in December 2025.

Defects were revealed in the trial run

During testing, some problems were discovered with the bogies and seats. These are being rectified to make the train safer and more efficient. Following the trials, the following changes are being made to the train:

• The emergency alarm button is being removed from behind the upper berth and installed in an accessible location.
• The AC duct is being shifted to a better position.
• Special cables and arc fault detection devices are being installed to prevent fire.
• Fire-resistant cables are being used for CCTV.
• Third-party safety testing is being carried out in accordance with European safety standards EN 45545 and EN 15227.

The launch of the train has been postponed several times.

The Vande Bharat sleeper train was originally scheduled to launch in October, but was postponed due to deficiencies discovered during testing. Now, the Railway Ministry has confirmed that the train will hit the tracks in December.

BEML is building 10 Vande Bharat sleeper trains. According to officials, the first train was a prototype, so it underwent extensive testing on every parameter. Based on suggestions, improvements are being made to further upgrade the train.

Speed ​​and design features

The train is designed for speeds of 160 km/h. Trials were successfully conducted at speeds of 180 km/h. The Railways states that there will be no compromise on safety and comfort. Once the train is launched, long-distance travel will be more comfortable, safe, and equipped with modern amenities than ever before.

Facilities available in Vande Bharat Sleeper Train

• Fully air-conditioned coaches

1. All coaches will be air-conditioned to ensure comfortable long distance/night travel.

• Different coach classes

There will be 3 types of classes in the train:

1. AC 3-Tier (11 coaches)
2. AC 2-Tier (4 coaches)
3. AC First Class (1 कोच)

• Comfortable berths

1. Wide bunk beds that provide ample space for sleeping.
2. Reading lights and USB charging ports on each berth.
3. Ergonomic ladder for climbing to the upper berth.

• sanitary facilities

1. There will be multiple toilets per coach and one toilet exclusively for differently-abled passengers.
2. Bio-vacuum (touch-free) toilets, which are better in terms of hygiene.
3. Hot water shower facility will also be available in AC First Class coaches.

• Safety and braking systems

1. Kavach Indigenous train collision-avoidance system, which reduces the chances of collisions.
2. Crash-proof design anti-climber, semi-permanent couplers.
3. Fire Safety: Compliant with European fire-safety standards such as EN-45545 HL3.
4. Fire detection system, smoke alarm.
5. Centralized coach monitoring system, which will monitor the AC and power systems.

• Comfort and connectivity

1. Sensor-based (automated) lighting that saves energy and improves ambiance.
2. Digital information display panels, which provide passengers with information about stations, timings, etc.
3. Public announcement (PA) system and voice communication (in case of emergency) can be done.
4. USB charging port on every berth.
5. Onboard Wi-Fi, which will provide internet facility.

• Pantry and food

1. The train will have a modular pantry car to provide delicious food and fresh snacks to the passengers.
2. Fixed and foldable snack tables for a comfortable dining experience.

• Facilities for special travellers

1. Special berths and WC for disabled passengers.
2. Dedicated facilities for driver and staff also like air conditioned loco pilot cabs and toilets for them.

• Pollution-control and energy efficiency

1. Regenerative braking system, which returns energy to the system when braking.
2. Air quality monitoring system designed to maintain oxygen levels.

• Other safety-technical features

1. CCTV cameras to enhance security inside the train.
2. Emergency Talk-Back Unit: Passengers and Train Manager/Loco Pilot can talk in case of emergency.
3. Wide internal gangways that are completely sealed to prevent dust from entering.

• High-Speed

1. The design speed of the train is up to 180 km/h.
2. The service speed will be around 160 km/h.