Vande Bharat Sleeper Express
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Express is a medium to long-distance superfast express service by Indian Railways. It is a reserved, air-conditioned sleeper service connecting cities that are to apart. It is operated by self-propelling trainsets, designed and manufactured in India. The first prototype of the train set was rolled out by BEML in September 2024. The first service began operation on 17 January 2026.
History
After the roll out of Vande Bharat trains that provided faster connectivity across short-distances, Integral Coach Factory started developing long-distance version of the trainset equipped with sleeper cars. The first prototype was rolled out by BEML in September 2024, and was expected enter commercial service by January 2026.
Rolling Stock
The trains uses Electric Multiple Units capable of achieving semi-high speeds of. The train's design includes a new aerodynamic front design made from high-strength materials for improved durability and reduced maintenance. Each trainset has sixteen cars, and are capable of accommodating up to 823 passengers.
Facilities
The service is a reserved, air-conditioned sleeper service connecting cities that are to apart. It offers three classes of accommodation with one First AC (1A) coach, four Second AC (2A) and 11 Third AC (3A) coaches, which can accommodate 24, 188 and 611 passengers respectively. The coaches are equipped with electric outlets, reading lights, CCTV cameras, automatic doors, bio-vacuum toilets, sensor-based water taps, and Passenger information system. It also contains fully air-conditioned locomotive cabins with dedicated toilets for train drivers. The trains are equipped with kavach train protection and emergency talk back systems. The service offers onboard catering with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meal options.
Services
The first commercial service was launched on 17 January 2026. Indian Railways plans to roll out 12 Vande Bharat Sleeper express trains by March 2027.