Indian Railways to Launch First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Between Delhi and Patna Before Diwali

Indian Railways is gearing up for a major milestone ahead of Diwali with the launch of its first Vande Bharat sleeper express train . Designed to combine speed, safety, and luxury, the train will run between Delhi and Patna via Prayagraj. Unlike the chair-car model currently in operation on several routes, this upgraded version has sleeper coaches, making it ideal for overnight travel.

Faster Than Rajdhani Express

The new Vande Bharat sleeper will cover the Delhi–Patna journey in just 11.5 hours. Departing from Patna at 8 PM, it is scheduled to reach Delhi by 7:30 AM the next day. This is a dramatic improvement compared to the Rajdhani Express, which takes nearly 23 hours to complete the same route. With a maximum speed of 180 km/h, thanks to advanced Integral Coach Factory (ICF) technology developed by BEML, the Vande Bharat sleeper is set to revolutionise long-distance train travel.

Flight-Like Experience on Rails

One of the biggest highlights of the Vande Bharat sleeper express is its interiors. Styled with an airplane-like finish, the coaches are designed to provide passengers with modern comfort and convenience. Features such as automatic sliding doors, LED display screens, and public announcement systems enhance the travel experience. The inclusion of CCTV cameras and advanced fire safety systems ensures passenger security throughout the journey.

Comfort of Sleeper Coaches

Unlike the existing Vande Bharat trains that are primarily chair-car models suited for daytime travel, this version has been specifically designed with sleeper berths for long journeys. Passengers can enjoy the comfort of sleeping overnight while experiencing the efficiency of high-speed rail travel . The train promises to bridge the gap between the affordability of trains and the convenience of flights, offering a cost-effective option for overnight travel.

Pocket-Friendly Alternative to Flights

While air travel between Delhi and Patna is fast, it often comes at a premium cost. The Vande Bharat sleeper aims to provide a middle ground—faster and more comfortable than traditional express trains while being cheaper than flights. Ticket prices are expected to be 10–15% higher than those of the Rajdhani Express. However, the added benefits of speed, comfort, and advanced facilities make it a value-for-money option for passengers.

Advanced Technology and Safety

Manufactured using cutting-edge technology by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), the sleeper express is equipped with safety and comfort systems that meet global standards. With anti-collision technology, better suspension systems, and aerodynamic design, the train ensures smooth rides even at high speeds. Its safety systems, including CCTV surveillance and fire detection, are intended to boost passenger confidence.

Expansion of the Vande Bharat Fleet

Currently, Vande Bharat trains are operational on seven major routes in India, primarily serving as chair-car services for medium-distance travel. The launch of the sleeper version marks a significant step toward expanding the network to cater to overnight journeys. With the growing demand for faster and more comfortable travel, Indian Railways is expected to roll out more sleeper versions across high-traffic routes in the coming years.

Changing the Face of Indian Railways

The introduction of the Vande Bharat sleeper train represents Indian Railways’ push towards modernisation. It is not just about speed but also about enhancing passenger experience. The new train will set benchmarks in terms of both luxury and practicality, offering travellers a superior alternative to existing options. For cities like Delhi and Patna, which see high passenger traffic year-round, this is a significant development.

Passenger Expectations and Future Plans

With rising passenger demand for fast, safe, and comfortable travel, the success of the first sleeper Vande Bharat will determine the pace of further expansions. Indian Railways is already working on extending the Vande Bharat model to more routes and enhancing coach capacity. If this Delhi–Patna sleeper express performs as expected, travellers can look forward to similar services on other long-distance routes in the near future.