New Delhi, Sept 8 (2025): Indian Railways is set to launch the country’s first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, a premium overnight train service, just ahead of Diwali 2025. The new train will connect Delhi and Patna via Prayagraj, reducing travel time to 11.5 hours from the current 12–17 hours, offering passengers flight-like comfort at affordable train fares.
Unlike the existing Vande Bharat Express trains, which are mainly designed with chair-car coaches for day journeys, this new model is specifically developed for long-distance overnight travel.
Faster, Smarter and More Comfortable Travel
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Maximum speed: 180 km/h, nearly halving journey times compared to traditional express services.
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Comparison: While the Rajdhani Express currently takes around 23 hours for the Delhi-Patna route, the new Vande Bharat Sleeper will cover it in less than 12 hours.
State-of-the-Art Features
Manufactured using Integral Coach Factory (ICF) technology by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), the train comes with advanced safety and comfort facilities, including:
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CCTV cameras for 24×7 surveillance and passenger safety
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LED screens for real-time travel information and onboard entertainment
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Automatic sensor-based doors for safe and efficient boarding
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Modern fire safety systems with improved evacuation protocols
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Aircraft-style interiors with premium finish for a luxury travel experience
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On-board announcement systems for smooth communication
A Big Leap for Indian Railways
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express marks a major milestone in Indian Railways’ modernization push. It aims to provide passengers with quicker, safer, and more comfortable travel options, especially for overnight journeys across long distances.
Officials hinted that if successful, the sleeper model may soon be expanded to other routes, potentially replacing slower long-distance trains in the coming years.
