Vande Bharat sleeper trains promise to revolutionize long-distance travel in India

In a significant development for rail travel in India, the Vande Bharat sleeper trains have undergone successful trials at a peak speed of 180 km/h in the Kota Division of Rajasthan. This initiative represents a monumental shift for Indian Railways, aiming to enhance the travel experience for long-distance commuters. The introduction of these sleeper variants follows the positive reception of the Vande Bharat Express chair car trains on shorter routes, highlighting the demand for modern, efficient rail options across the country. These trials come as part of an initiative to elevate long-distance travel by providing features such as ultra-comfortable berths, onboard WiFi, and automatic doors. The successful performance has been showcased in a video shared by Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, illustrating the stability and comfort of the ride even at high speeds, which is particularly noteworthy as a full glass of water remained undisturbed during the 180 km/h test. The trials aim to ensure that the Vande Bharat sleeper trains meet high safety and performance standards before their certification and regular service. Indian Railways is currently working with the Railway Safety Commissioner, with all tests being conducted under the supervision of RDSO. The plans for introducing these trains include significant routes such as Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Delhi to Mumbai, and Howrah to Chennai, all of which are crucial to improving connectivity across the nation. The anticipated introduction of the Vande Bharat sleeper trains will provide a welcome enhancement to Indian Railways' offerings, replacing existing long-distance trains like the Tejas Rajdhani Express, which currently operates at a maximum speed of 140 km/h. As the new trains promise faster, safer, and more luxurious travel options, they signal a transformative era in rail transportation for Indian commuters, allowing them to enjoy modern amenities while reducing travel times on key routes throughout India.