Marking a significant milestone for Indian Railways, the first Vande Bharat sleeper train is set to connect Guwahati, Assam, to Howrah, West Bengal. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the completion of trials, testing, and certification for the new train, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to flag it off in the next few weeks, around January 17-18.

The introduction of the Vande Bharat sleeper train is poised to revolutionize long-distance travel, offering a modern, comfortable, and faster alternative to existing trains. Designed for overnight journeys, the train aims to provide a superior travel experience with enhanced safety features and world-class amenities. The Vande Bharat sleeper train is designed for routes covering 1,000 to 1,500 km.

Fares for the Guwahati-Howrah route will range from approximately ₹2,300 to ₹3,600, depending on the travel class. The 3AC fare is set at approximately ₹2,300, the 2AC fare around ₹3,000, and the First AC fare is proposed at approximately ₹3,600. These fares are significantly lower than airfares on the same route, which can range from ₹6,000 to ₹10,000, making the Vande Bharat sleeper a cost-effective option for many passengers.

The 16-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train has a total capacity of around 823 passengers. The train comprises 11 three-tier AC coaches, 4 two-tier AC coaches, and 1 first-class AC coach. The sleeper train is equipped with several advanced features, including ergonomically designed berths with improved cushioning, automatic doors with vestibules for smooth movement, and enhanced ride comfort with superior suspension and noise reduction.

Safety is a paramount concern, and the Vande Bharat sleeper train includes the KAVACH train protection system, CCTV surveillance in all coaches, emergency talk-back units for communication between passengers and train staff, and aerosol-based fire detection and suppression systems. Disinfectant technology is also integrated to maintain high sanitation.

The train's design allows it to reach a maximum speed of 180 kmph. The Vande Bharat sleeper train features a newly designed bogie with an advanced suspension system, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable ride. The interiors and ladders are ergonomically designed, with special parameters implemented for safety and security. The train's timetable will be planned to ensure an evening departure and early morning arrival, optimizing travel time for passengers.

During its journey between Howrah and Guwahati, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train will halt at eight stations: Bandel, Katwa, New Farakka, Malda Town, New Jalpaiguri, New Coochbehar, and New Bongaigaon.

Catering services will offer region-specific cuisine, with Assamese dishes served on trains originating from Guwahati and Bengali cuisine on those starting from Howrah.

The districts that will benefit from this Vande Bharat Sleeper Train service include Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon in Assam, and Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Maldah, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, and Howrah in West Bengal.

The introduction of this Vande Bharat sleeper train is part of a larger initiative to expand and modernize the Indian Railways. Indian Railways plans a large-scale rollout of sleeper versions in the coming years, with more than 200 such trains planned. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that around 12 Vande Bharat sleeper trains are expected to be ready and inducted into the rail network by the end of this year.