New Delhi: The first Vande Bharat sleeper train is set to roll out by the end of this month. This will mark a significant milestone for India in pushing for a faster and more comfortable train journey. However, the train is likely not expected to reach the planned speed of 130-180 km/h. The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is a new, comfortable train introduced by Indian Railways. It will make long-distance travel easier and more enjoyable. This train is designed specifically for passengers who travel long distances.
Sleeper Berths
Sleeper berths have been added to a train originally designed for Vande Bharat chaircars. The design now includes modifications to store more water. These updates have increased the weight of the coaches, which means the train will not reach its intended speed of 130-180 km/h. The maximum speed is now limited to 130 km/h.
Where Are Sleeper Coaches Made?
Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) makes the sleeper coaches for the Integral Coach Factory (ICF). The first train was handed over on October 4, 2024. ICF has been preparing to launch the train on the tracks in the past three months. In 2023, ICF gave BEML a contract to make 10 Vande Bharat trains, each with 16 coaches.
Features of Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Express is designed to travel at 160 km/h and has 16 coaches, including 11 AC three-tier, four AC two-tier, and one AC first-class coach, providing 823 passenger berths.
The train includes advanced lighting, USB charging ports, and a dedicated dog area to ensure a comfortable journey. Each Driving Trailer Coach (DTC) has plenty of space for luggage.
Passengers can enjoy fresh meals from large, medium, and small pantries; fixed and foldable snack tables are available for dining.
The aerodynamic cab can withstand impacts up to 36 km/h and has crash buffers and anti-climbers for passenger safety.
The HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system keeps the air conditioning uniform throughout the train for consistent comfort.
The train is equipped with a Black Box that records real-time data for safety through constant performance monitoring.
The Vigilance Control Device requires the driver to operate it every minute. A Fire Detection System and safety features that ensure a quick 15-minute response time add to safety.
The loco cabs are fully air-conditioned, with dedicated toilets to support the crew’s well-being and allow them to perform at their best.
The train has 51 ergonomically designed toilets, offering Euro, Oriental, and combination styles. First-class passengers have access to shower facilities.
To maintain hygiene, each coach has serviced bio-digester tanks every six months and 30-litre garbage compactors.
India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train is built by BEML and ICF. While initially designed for 180 km/h, weight increases from added sleeper berths limit its speed to 130 km/h. The train offers enhanced comfort with features like improved AC, USB ports, dedicated pet areas, and modern amenities. Safety is prioritised with a black box, improved crash protection, and an advanced fire detection system. Biz News Business News – Personal Finance News, Share Market News, BSE/NSE News, Stock Exchange News Today
