New Delhi: Indian Railways plans to manufacture 260 Vande Bharat Sleeper trainsets as part of its rolling stock modernisation programme, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha.
In a written reply, the minister said new rolling stock development follows a phased approach. It begins with prototype design, followed by testing, trials, and series production. This process ensures safety, reliability, and passenger comfort.
BEML and the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai are executing the programme with technology partners. The ministry will induct the trainsets into service in phases, based on demand and operational readiness.
Advanced features planned for Vande Bharat Sleeper trains
The government aims to raise standards for long-distance rail travel. Therefore, the coaches include modern safety systems and passenger-focused amenities.
Key safety features include semi-permanent couplers with anti-climbers and crashworthy car bodies that meet EN standards. The trains also operate with the KAVACH automatic train protection system. In addition, fire safety improves through fire barrier doors and aerosol-based detection and suppression systems.
The trainsets offer higher acceleration with a design speed of 180 kmph and an operating speed of 160 kmph. Moreover, regenerative braking systems improve energy efficiency.
Passenger amenities include automatic plug doors, wider sealed gangways, and CCTV cameras in all coaches. Air-conditioning units use an indigenously developed UV-C disinfection system to improve onboard hygiene.
The coaches also feature emergency talk-back units, centralized coach monitoring systems, and ergonomic ladders for upper berths. Special lavatories have been provided in the driving coaches for Divyangjan passengers.
The minister said the induction of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains would improve long-distance travel and strengthen indigenous railway manufacturing.
