Check route, fare, launch date for new Guwahati–Kolkata Vande Bharat express train
Equipped with advanced safety systems like KAVACH and focusing on overnight comfort, it marks a new era for long-distance rail travel, with more trains planned.
New Delhi: Indian Railways is officially entering a new era of long-distance travel. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday that the highly anticipated Vande Bharat Sleeper between Guwahati and Kolkata has successfully cleared all high-speed trials and safety certifications.
The inaugural service will connect the Northeast to West Bengal, providing a premium alternative to both traditional trains and expensive flights.
While sharing details about the inaugural route between Guwahati (Assam) and Kolkata/Howrah (West Bengal), Vaishnaw said that the train is set to be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi within the next 15 to 20 days.
Luxury at an affordable price
The Vande Bharat Sleeper aims to disrupt the travel market by offering high-speed luxury at a fraction of the cost of airfare, which typically ranges from Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000 on this route.
The railway minister said the fare for the Guwahati–Howrah route has been set at Rs 2,300 for 3AC. Rs 3,000, 2AC with First AC is proposed at nearly Rs 3,600.
Technical specs and passenger comfort
This "Next-Gen" train is built for journeys exceeding 1,000 kilometres, focusing on overnight comfort and cutting-edge safety. The train recently clocked a top speed of 180 kmph during trials on the Kota–Nagda section.
Equipped with the indigenous KAVACH anti-collision system, crashworthy couplers, and advanced fire detection, the train has been developed as per the modern parameters in the Indian Railways.
The 16-coach rake features automatic doors, vacuum toilets, CCTV surveillance, energy-efficient technologies, and specialised facilities for Divyangjan (specially-abled) passengers.
The train has been equipped with upgraded suspension systems to ensure a jerk-free, stable sleep even at high speeds.
The road ahead
This launch is just the beginning. The Railway Ministry plans to induct 12 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains by the end of 2024, with a massive production ramp-up scheduled for next year under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.