Indian Railways: What is the status of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains?
The Vande Bharat sleeper trains are being designed with advanced features like automatic doors, ultra comfortable berths, on board WiFi and an aircraft-like design. With the introduction of this new semi-high-speed train, passengers will experience a quieter, smoother and more comfortable journey, equipped with world-class amenities and advanced safety features.
After a successful trial run earlier this year, many are still wondering: when will this next-generation train finally be launched?
In a written reply in Rajya Sabha on Friday (July 25, 2025), Railway Minister stated that the first rake of Vande Bharat sleeper train is undergoing commissioning. 'The first prototype of Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset has already been manufactured. Based on the extensive field trials and the experience gained therein, the first rake of Vande Bharat sleeper train is undergoing commissioning,' the minister said.
In a separate response, the Union Minister stated that the design for the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains, to be manufactured by Indian Railways, has been finalised. He further informed that production is currently underway for 10 such trains.
'Further production of 50 Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes has been taken up by Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai. In addition, Contracts for manufacturing of 200 Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes have also been awarded to Technology Partners, out of which, M/s KINET Railway Solutions Limited is required to supply 120 trains of 16 cars each. This is as per the original contract agreement,' Vaishnaw said.
The Railway Minister was responding to a query raised by TMC MP Saket Gokhale regarding the Vande Bharat Sleeper coach tender awarded to the JV company Kinet. He also sought clarification on whether the original tender for 120 trains with 16 coaches each had been revised to 80 trains with 24 coaches each. He also inquired about proposed design changes, etc.
Anish Mondal is a business journalist with over nine years of experience. He writes on diverse subjects such as Infrastructure, Railways, Roadways, Aviation, Politics, Market, Parliamentary affairs, Corporate earnings, General and International news etc. ... Read More
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