New Delhi | January 1, 2026 | SKY LINK TIMES
1st Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Guwahati-Howrah:
Indian Railways is set to usher in a new era of overnight rail travel with the launch of the country’s first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, which will operate between Guwahati in Assam and Howrah in West Bengal. Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the development on Thursday, calling it a major milestone for passengers and the rail network.
The Minister confirmed that all trials, testing, and certifications of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train have been successfully completed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the inaugural service later this month.
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A Major Boost for Indian Railways
Vaishnaw said the introduction of the sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat series marks a significant step forward for modern, passenger-centric reforms in Indian Railways. He added that 2026 will be a landmark year, with several initiatives aimed at enhancing safety, comfort, and travel experience.
Designed for long-distance overnight journeys, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will depart from its origin in the evening and reach its destination early the next morning, offering time-efficient travel for passengers.
Districts That Will Benefit
The new semi-high-speed service will benefit multiple districts across Assam and West Bengal, improving regional connectivity. In Assam, the train will serve Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon, while in West Bengal it will cover Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Maldah, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, and Howrah.
This connectivity is expected to provide a significant boost to trade, tourism, and economic activity in the Northeast and eastern India.
Coach Composition and Passenger Capacity
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will consist of 16 modern coaches, including:
•11 three-tier AC coaches
•4 two-tier AC coaches
•1 first-class AC coach
The total passenger capacity of the train is approximately 823 passengers.
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Speed, Comfort, and Safety Features
The train has a design speed of up to 180 kmph and features ergonomically designed berths with enhanced cushioning for superior comfort. It is equipped with automatic doors, smooth vestibules, and CCTV surveillance in all coaches.
A newly designed bogie and advanced suspension system have been developed to ensure better ride quality. Safety has been further strengthened with the installation of the KAVACH automatic train protection system, emergency talk-back units, and an aerosol-based fire detection and suppression system in electrical cabinets and lavatories.
Region-Specific Cuisine on Board
Passengers will also enjoy region-specific culinary offerings. Trains originating from Guwahati will serve authentic Assamese dishes, while those starting from Kolkata will feature traditional Bengali cuisine, providing a culturally rich onboard experience.
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