As we step into 2026, Indian Railways has shared some exciting news with us! On January 1, 2026, during a meeting in New Delhi, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw extended his New Year wishes. They announced the launch of the first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Train. This train will run between Guwahati, Assam, and Howrah, West Bengal. The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train has completed all necessary trials and obtained the required certifications. In an upcoming event this January, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially launch this much-anticipated train. This development is a major achievement for Indian Railways, and here’s everything you must know.
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There’s been a lot of buzz surrounding the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train and its different routes, but it’s now official: the first route will be from Guwahati to Howrah. This new service will benefit several districts, including Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon in Assam, as well as Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Maldah, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, and Howrah in West Bengal.
वंदे भारत स्लीपर का कंप्लीट टेस्टिंग और सर्टिफिकेशन पूरा हो चुका है और इसका पहला रूट गुवाहाटी से कोलकाता होगा। माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi जी आगामी कुछ ही दिनों में इस रूट पर पहली वंदे भारत स्लीपर को फ्लैग ऑफ करेंगे: माननीय रेल मंत्री श्री @AshwiniVaishnaw जी pic.twitter.com/sTjlnqWj7A
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) January 1, 2026
The train is set to have 16 coaches, consisting of 11 three-tier AC coaches, 4 two-tier AC coaches, and 1 first-class AC coach, allowing around 823 passengers to travel comfortably.
Ashwini Vaishnaw has mentioned that the bogies have been completely reimagined with an innovative suspension system. They’ve really taken the design to the next level, focusing on both aesthetics and functionality. The interiors and ladders feature ergonomic designs, ensuring not just style but also safety and security for all passengers.
What To Know About The First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will provide a cozy, safe, and enjoyable travel experience for overnight trips. Its schedule will allow it to leave in the evening and arrive at its destination the next morning.
Passengers will be treated to local food specialities along the way. For example, trains starting from Guwahati will serve authentic Assamese dishes, while those from Kolkata will offer delicious Bengali food, making for a rich cultural experience on board.
Key Features of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train include:
– A semi-high-speed design with a top speed of 180 km/h
– Comfortable sleeping berths with extra cushioning
– Automatic doors for easy access
– Improved ride quality with better suspension and reduced noise
– Equipped with KAVACH technology for safety
– Disinfectant systems for cleanliness
– A driver’s cabin with advanced controls and safety measures
– A sleek, aerodynamic design and automatic external doors
– Special provisions for passengers with disabilities
– An emergency communication system for contacting staff
– CCTV cameras in every coach
– Enhanced fire safety features, including a detection and suppression system in electrical areas and restrooms.
Stay tuned for the exact launch date, pricing and other details!
