Vande Bharat Express sleeper train: Top passenger-friendly features supposedly better than Rajdhani Express

In the upcoming months, Indian Railways is planning to launch the Vande Bharat Express’s first sleeper version. At the end of October last year, the first prototype of the Vande Bharat sleeper train went into production.

It is anticipated that the Vande Bharat sleeper train will start running in February or March 2024.

Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) is partnering with Indian Railways Integral Coach Factory to manufacture the new Vande Bharat sleeper train, which is expected to be better than the Rajdhani Express.

Following are some of the features of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train:

· Extra cushioning has been added to the side of the berths with consideration for passenger comfort, making it more comfortable for passengers to turn while they are sleeping or resting.

· Superior cushioning and berth comfort compared to Rajdhani Express trains.

· Improved ladder that makes it easier to climb up the upper berths.

· Smoother rides with improved couplers.

· The interior has been decorated in shades of cream, yellow, and wood to create a better ambient feel.

· Common area lighting equipped with sensors.

· Improved night lighting on the floor with strips to make the coach aisle area easier to navigate.

· Energy-saving overhead lighting.

· Washbasins with features to prevent spills.

Some other salient features of the train:

· The train headlights have aerodynamic exterior designs inspired by the eyes of the eagle bird.

· Top-notch interiors featuring GFRP panels.

· Intercommunication doors with sensors.

· Automated passenger doors on the outside.

· Modular pantry.

· Special berths and toilets for the differently abled.

· Public announcement and visual information system.

· Toilet system with no odour, ergonomically designed.

· Large room for luggage.

The sleeper version of the Vande Bharat Express trains will also be a self-propelled distributed power train with a speed potential of 160 kmph. The Vande Bharat sleeper train will be able to reduce travel time thanks to its faster acceleration and deceleration capabilities, which will be especially helpful for overnight train trips.