On Saturday, January 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s inaugural sleeper Vande Bharat train, establishing a connection between Howrah and Kamakhya during his two-day tour of West Bengal. The ceremony took place in Malda.
This new train is distinct from the existing Vande Bharat services, which primarily operate as chair-car options, as it is specifically designed for overnight travel. It will run six days a week in both directions, departing Howrah at 6.20 pm and Kamakhya at 6.15 pm, with an expected journey time of around 14 hours.
The initiative aims to enhance the comfort and efficiency of long-distance travel between eastern India and the Northeast.
Features of the sleeper Vande Bharat
The newly introduced Vande Bharat is tailored for overnight trips, featuring sleeper coaches rather than just seating areas. The train’s interiors were revealed prior to the launch, showcasing its contemporary design.
The Railways indicated that the train will not accommodate a RAC or waitlist, meaning only those with confirmed tickets will be permitted onboard. Ticket prices range from ₹960 to ₹13,300, based on the class selected.
Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw mentioned that passengers would be able to enjoy local cuisine from Bengal and Assam during their journey.
Benefits for travellers
The new service is anticipated to assist commuters frequently traveling between West Bengal and Assam by providing a direct overnight travel option. This will significantly reduce travel time and allow passengers to save daylight hours as the train operates at night.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi remarked that the train links “the land of Ma Kali with the land of Ma Kamakhya,” expressing that the new services would facilitate travel and trade.
He also noted that international visitors are creating videos about Indian trains, highlighting the improvements in the rail system. The Prime Minister emphasized that Vande Bharat trains are manufactured in India and that the Indian Railways is evolving to become more modern and self-sufficient.
Additional trains launched from West Bengal
In conjunction with the sleeper Vande Bharat, four other trains were launched virtually:
- New Jalpaiguri–Nagercoil Amrit Bharat Express
- New Jalpaiguri–Tiruchirappalli Amrit Bharat Express
- Alipurduar–SMVT Bengaluru Amrit Bharat Express
- Alipurduar–Mumbai (Panvel) Amrit Bharat Express
These Amrit Bharat Express trains will link West Bengal with various regions across the country, including southern and western India.
The launches occur as West Bengal approaches its election period.
Prominent BJP figures, such as Sukanta Majumdar, Suvendu Adhikari, and Samik Bhattacharya, attended the event alongside Governor C.V. Ananda Bose.
(Edited by : Priyanka Deshpande)
