India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train set, unveiled by Railways Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw at BEML’s Bangalore complex, marks a significant leap in the country’s rail capabilities. Manufactured in just 9 months, this state-of-the-art train set boasts advanced safety features and world-class amenities, setting new standards for luxury rail travel in India.
More Details:
In a historic event, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Railways, unveiled India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train set at BEML’s Bangalore complex. The train set, manufactured in just 9 months, marks a significant achievement for BEML. He also inaugurated a new 9.2-acre hangar facility dedicated to exporting standard and broad-gauge rolling stock, enhancing BEML’s global presence.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper train set, designed by BEML, represents a significant advancement in India’s rail capabilities, combining aesthetic appeal with functionality. Constructed from Austenitic stainless steel and equipped with advanced safety features like crashworthy buffers and couplers, the train set meets stringent EN45545 HL3 fire safety standards. It offers a world-class passenger experience, featuring USB charging ports, security systems, modular pantries, and accessible facilities, including showers in the 1st AC car.
Salient features of Vande Bharat Sleeper Train:
- Austenitic Stainless steel Train Set
- Crash worthy features in Train Set for Passenger safety
- Best-in-class interiors with GFRP panels
- Aerodynamic exterior looks
- Modular pantry
- Fire safety as per EN 45545, Hazard Level: 03
- Special berths and toilets for differently abled
- Automatic exterior passenger doors
- Sensor based inter communication doors
- Remotely operated Fire barrier doors at end wall
- Ergonomically designed odour free toilet system
- Toilet for driving crew
- Shower with hot water in 1st AC car
- Integrated Reading light with USB Charging provision
- Public announcement and visual information system
- Modern passenger amenities
- Spacious luggage room
Insights:
Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw stated, “This is a historic moment for the country. The much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper train set is now set to run on Indian Railways tracks, providing our people with a world-class travel experience and best-in-class amenities. The dedication and expertise of BEML’s leadership and engineers have made this remarkable achievement possible.”
Shri Shantanu Roy, CMD of BEML, highlighted the company’s six-decade legacy in rail manufacturing, stating that the Vande Bharat Sleeper train set is a landmark in India’s transportation infrastructure. BEML has meticulously engineered the train, focusing on integrated critical systems like propulsion, HVAC, and safety components to ensure seamless performance. The entire manufacturing process reflects BEML’s commitment to quality and precision.
Performance of Train:
| Maximum operational speed during service | 160 kmph |
| Maximum operational speed during testing | 180 kmph |
| Passenger capacity: Type of Berth | No of coaches per train | Number of berths |
| AC 3 Tier Berths | 11 | 611 |
| AC 2 Tier Berths | 4 | 188 |
| First Class AC Berths | 1 | 24 |
| Total | 16 | 823 |
Background:
- In a landmark event, Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the Railway Training Institute for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s history.
- The discussion covered key issues such as the training curriculum, infrastructure, and career development.
- He sought trainee input, demonstrating his commitment to collaborative problem-solving and inclusive decision-making.
- This historic visit will be remembered as a turning point in the relationship between the Ministry of Railways and its trainees, marking the beginning of a new era of mutual respect, trust, and collaboration.
- Later, from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, he dedicated the gauge conversion of the Pilbhit-Shahgarh-Mailani railway section and inaugurated a new train service on that route via video conference.
Conclusion:
The unveiling of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train set underscores India’s commitment to advancing its rail infrastructure with cutting-edge technology and enhanced passenger experiences. With this landmark achievement, BEML and Indian Railways are poised to redefine rail travel, combining safety, comfort, and innovation for millions of passengers nationwide.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Images Credit: Northern Railway
