New Delhi – Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw personally inspected India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train, a modern overnight semi-high-speed train designed for long-distance travel between Guwahati and Kolkata. The inspection was held on January 3, 2026, at New Delhi Railway Station, marking a big step toward launching this train for regular passenger service soon. This event highlights the government’s focus on upgrading rail travel with comfort, safety, and speed at its heart.
What’s Happening
After months of design, production, and high-speed trials including a successful run at 180 km/h under CRS supervision, the first Vande Bharat sleeper train is almost ready for public service. Minister Vaishnaw’s inspection brought together government officials, engineers, and safety experts to ensure that every detail is ready before the official inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
This new sleeper version will expand the popular Vande Bharat family from day journeys to comfortable overnight travel, a first in India’s modern rail fleet.
Who It Affects
- Long-distance travellers between Northeast and East India
- Commuters preferring overnight comfort
- Tourists and business passengers looking for fast, safe travel
- Railway tech and safety teams focused on modern systems
For FlipMyTravel users, this train will soon show up in our trip routes making it easier to plan combined travel from trains to flights or buses. (Internal brand pitching)
Where It Will Run
The first Vande Bharat sleeper service is planned between Guwahati (Assam) and Howrah (West Bengal) a key long-distance corridor linking the Northeast with eastern India.
When It Starts
Though no exact public timetable is released yet, the railway minister confirmed that the train will launch after CRS certification and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag it off very soon expected mid-January 2026.
Official Sources & Quotes
✔ Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the train’s design is “completely new,” with **passenger comfort and safety in mind,” and that the fare has been kept reasonable. Webindia123 News
✔ The train is fitted with pre-installed CCTV, advanced braking systems, and the KAVACH accident-prevention system to ensure higher safety. Webindia123 News
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a vision to transform the railways completely, and the Vande Sleeper train for overnight journeys is a new effort in that direction,” the minister told reporters. The News Mill
Highlights – Quick Facts
1. Next-Gen Sleeper Train Ready for Launch
- First of its kind in India a semi-high-speed sleeper train.
- Designed for overnight comfort and convenience.
2. Modern Features for Comfort & Safety
- 16 coaches with multiple AC classes and ergonomic berths.
- KAVACH safety system, CCTV, advanced brakes, and ergonomic interiors.
3. Successful High-Speed Trials
- The train ran at 180 km/h during trials under CRS supervision.
- High-speed trials included performance checks on ride stability and safety systems.
4. PM Narendra Modi to Inaugurate Soon
The official launch is expected mid-January 2026 after final certification.
Activities – What Comes Next
1. Final CRS Certification
✔ The Ministry of Railways will complete safety and performance certification.
Activity: CRS report review and approval before public operations.
2. Public Timetable & Reservations
✔ Once cleared, Indian Railways will release a full timetable.
Activity: Online ticket bookings to open on IRCTC and FlipMyTravel.
3. Passenger Awareness Campaign
✔ Officials will share details about routes, onboard services, and safety features.
Activity: Digital and station-based announcements for travellers.
4. Network Integration
✔ Once operational, route planners like FlipMyTravel will add this service for multi-mode travel planning.
Activity: Integration with trains and connecting transport options.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train on January 3, 2026, at New Delhi Railway Station. The semi-high-speed sleeper service designed for overnight travel between Guwahati and Howrah is set for official launch soon by Prime Minister Narendra Modi after final safety certification. The train features advanced safety systems, passenger comfort upgrades, and high-speed capability up to 180 km/h.
