The Sleeper Version of Vande Bharat is almost ready for its commercial run. Rigorous trials spanning 28 days have been completed in different divisions of Indian Railways, including a confirmatory run trial that was recently completed between Ahmedabad and Mumbai on the Mumbai Central division of Western Railway.
The train is currently undergoing the certification process, after which it will be ready for commercial operations soon. Although the specific routes for the train have yet to be finalized, sources indicate that the Mumbai-Delhi route is also a priority for Indian Railways.
“Trials were conducted over 28 days across multiple divisions, testing various performance and safety parameters. A confirmatory run trial was recently completed between Ahmedabad and Mumbai, further validating the train’s readiness for commercial deployment” said an official.
According to a LinkedIn post by Rupesh Kohali, Executive Director of the Research Designs and Standards Organization (RDSO), the trials were conducted over 28 days across multiple divisions, testing various performance and safety parameters.
“The Jhansi division trials evaluated the train’s performance at a maximum speed of 115 kmph in both empty and loaded conditions, while the Kota division trials tested the train at a top speed of 180 kmph,” stated Kohali on his social media account. “Brake performance tests were conducted at 160 kmph under dry and wet conditions in different braking modes to ensure operational safety.”
Additionally, coupler force assessments were carried out at 160 kmph to evaluate safety and stability under diverse braking and motoring modes. The train also completed a confirmatory run between Ahmedabad and Mumbai, further validating its readiness for commercial deployment.
“The successful completion of these trials marks a significant step in delivering state-of-the-art passenger services,” said an official of Indian Railway. “With its certification process nearing completion, Indian Railways is set to introduce this next-generation train to its fleet, potentially redefining overnight train journeys across the country” further added official.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper train is expected to enhance passenger comfort on overnight journeys, aligning with the government’s mission to upgrade railway infrastructure. Designed to offer a luxurious travel experience, the sleeper version is seen as a game-changer for long-distance rail travel in India.
