India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to Debut in West Bengal | 09 Jan 2026

Why in News?

India’s first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to debut in West Bengal, marking a major step in modernising long-distance overnight rail travel with enhanced comfort and speed.

Key Points

• Route: The train will operate between Guwahati (Kamakhya) in Assam and Howrah in West Bengal, connecting eastern and northeastern India. 
• Modern Amenities: Unlike the existing Vande Bharat trains that are daytime chair-car services, this version is fully air-conditioned with sleeping berths.
• Speed & Technology: This train has successfully completed high-speed trials achieving speeds of up to 180 km/h and is equipped with advanced safety features including the KAVACH anti-collision system.
• Manufacturing: The sleeper trainsets are being manufactured in India by BEML Ltd using technology from the Integral Coach Factory (ICF).

• New Production Line: A special production line was also established in Uttarpara (West Bengal) by a consortium of Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL) and BHEL to build multiple sleeper sets.

• Significance: The train combines semi-high-speed travel with sleeper comfort, reducing journey time and improving connectivity between eastern and northeastern India.