A new Vande Bharat Sleeper service has started running between Howrah and Kamakhya, cutting down travel time and strengthening connectivity in the region.

The currently operating Vande Bharat Sleeper train on this route is a semi-high-speed service made up of 16 coaches.

Its coach composition includes 11 Third AC coaches, 4 Second AC coaches, and 1 First AC coach.

Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Begins Service Between Howrah and Kamakhya, Reducing Travel Time and Boosting Regional Connectivity

Indian Railways plans to introduce additional Vande Bharat Sleeper trains across more routes in the coming months.

The Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF) will produce 50 new Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes with a larger 24-coach configuration.

This manufacturing plan was confirmed by ICF General Manager U. Subba Rao during the 77th Republic Day celebrations at the M. Arun Sports Complex (ICF Stadium).

Rao stated that key railway projects are moving forward as scheduled, including the 24-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper rake and Amrit Bharat Version 3.0.

He said, “The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, designed by ICF and manufactured at BEML, was flagged off by the Hon’ble Prime Minister on 17 January 2026 for service between Howrah and Kamakhya, offering world-class comfort, advanced safety systems and modern passenger amenities.”

He further added, “Major projects such as the 24-car Vande Bharat Sleeper rake and Amrit Bharat Version 3.0 are progressing well.”

Later, ICF Public Relations Officer M.G. Shanker confirmed to IndianExpress.com that exactly 50 Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes will be built.

Shanker stated, “We will be manufacturing 50 rakes of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains.”

India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train was officially inaugurated on January 17. And commercial passenger services for this train began shortly after, on January 22.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw previously announced that Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are intended for overnight journeys of about 1,500 kilometers.

He explained the overnight travel concept by saying, “Passengers can board the train in the evening and reach their destination the next morning.”

Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Features

The 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper train has a total passenger capacity of 823 travelers. This capacity includes 611 passengers in Third AC, 188 in Second AC, and 24 in First AC.

The train is classified as semi-high-speed, with a design speed reaching up to 180 kmph.

Sleeping berths are ergonomically designed and come with improved cushioning for better comfort.

Automatic doors and vestibules are installed to allow smooth movement between coaches.

The train provides enhanced ride quality through superior suspension systems and reduced noise levels.

Safety features include the Kavach system along with an emergency talk-back communication setup.

Disinfection technology is used onboard to maintain high standards of cleanliness and sanitation.

The driver’s cab is equipped with advanced control systems and modern safety mechanisms.

The exterior design is aerodynamic, and the train includes automatic external passenger doors for efficient boarding and deboarding.

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