Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Launch Faces Delay, Indian Railways Flags Issues
The launch of the highly anticipated Vande Bharat Sleeper Train has encountered further delays, as Indian Railways has highlighted several issues affecting the project. Challenges including design modifications and supply chain constraints have slowed progress on the country’s first 16-car Vande Bharat sleeper train. The Railway Ministry has now issued an update, citing concerns over furnishings and workmanship while granting conditional approval to begin operations.
Issues Identified by Indian Railways
The Railway Board noted, "There are issues related to furnishing and workmanship at many places in respect of sharp edges and corners at berthing area, window curtain handles, pigeon pockets between berth connectors, inviting cleaning issues etc." These concerns were detailed in a written communication sent to the Director General of the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the General Managers of all railway zones, PTI reported.
The Ministry emphasised that corrective measures are needed for the current rake, and additional design improvements will be required for future rakes. Zones have also been instructed to follow all RDSO guidelines for operating the train at a maximum speed of 160 kmph.
Sanctioning Process Explained
Officials clarified that before any newly designed train begins operations, the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) must grant final approval through the RDSO. "The CCRS during trial conveys its observations to the RDSO for compliance. In the case of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, the RDSO sent its updated compliance on September 1, 2025," officials said.
Route and Safety Compliance
The Ministry’s letter, dated October 28, was sent to all railway zones because the train’s route has not yet been finalised. Officials confirmed that certain safety and operational measures must be met before launch, including:
These measures are crucial to ensure smooth and safe operations once the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is ready to roll.
Issues Identified by Indian Railways
The Railway Board noted, "There are issues related to furnishing and workmanship at many places in respect of sharp edges and corners at berthing area, window curtain handles, pigeon pockets between berth connectors, inviting cleaning issues etc." These concerns were detailed in a written communication sent to the Director General of the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the General Managers of all railway zones, PTI reported.
The Ministry emphasised that corrective measures are needed for the current rake, and additional design improvements will be required for future rakes. Zones have also been instructed to follow all RDSO guidelines for operating the train at a maximum speed of 160 kmph.
Sanctioning Process Explained
Officials clarified that before any newly designed train begins operations, the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) must grant final approval through the RDSO. "The CCRS during trial conveys its observations to the RDSO for compliance. In the case of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, the RDSO sent its updated compliance on September 1, 2025," officials said.
Route and Safety Compliance
The Ministry’s letter, dated October 28, was sent to all railway zones because the train’s route has not yet been finalised. Officials confirmed that certain safety and operational measures must be met before launch, including:
- Fire safety protocols
- Installation of Kavach 4.0
- Reliable communication systems between loco pilots, train managers, and adjacent station masters
- Proper maintenance of all brake systems
These measures are crucial to ensure smooth and safe operations once the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is ready to roll.
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