- By Priyanka Koul
- Fri, 21 Nov 2025 04:47 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Launch: Indian Railways is gearing up to launch the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train soon, and the wait is finally coming to an end. If everything is completed on schedule, this semi-high-speed sleeper train could soon be available for passengers. This latest update was provided by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who also explained why the launch has been delayed. The forthcoming sleeper version aims to offer a superb blend of luxury and advanced technology for passengers.
Why delay in launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train?
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that some modifying work is being carried out on the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to improve passenger convenience. The fully completed train will be launched soon. After the initial testing of the first rake, minor improvements to the bogies and seats were suggested, and these are currently being implemented.
"Minor retrofitting for the first Vande Bharat sleeper train is underway to improve passenger comfort, and the updated train will be launched next month", Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said.
The minister added that after the testing of the first rake, minor changes in the bogies and seats were recommended, and these are now being addressed.
“Whatever issues that appeared during the testing of the first rake, we are addressing them in the first as well as in the second train,” Vaishnaw said during an interaction with reporters on Tuesday.
When will Vande Bharat Sleeper Train be launched?
According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the minor retrofitting work for the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is underway to enhance passenger comfort, and the updated train will be launched next month, which is December 2025.
Emphasising the focus on passenger convenience and safety, he said, “We don’t believe in shortcuts because we have to make a good product for the next generation.” When asked about the route and probable launch date, Vaishnaw said, “We will launch the train in December.”
Officials at Bharat Earth Movers Ltd (BEML), which is manufacturing 10 Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains, confirmed that the first train, a prototype is with them for retrofitting after extensive testing and trials under the supervision of the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS).
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BEML confirmed that this prototype has returned for retrofitting after undergoing thorough testing as part of safety and performance evaluations.
What modifications are being made to Vande Bharat Sleeper Train?
According to PTI, in a letter to the RDSO on October 28, the Railway Ministry approved the 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train with a series of modifications, including:
- an arc fault detection device (to prevent fire incidents)
- a new location for AC ducts
- fire-survival cables for CCTV systems
- third-party audits for fire protection (EN 45545)
- crashworthiness compliance (EN 15227) both as per European standards
The letter also noted that the emergency alarm button and its indication board were hidden behind the connector console of the upper berth, making it difficult for passengers to access in an emergency. Therefore, it has been recommended that future production trains place the emergency button in a more accessible location.