New Delhi: Indian Railways is gearing up to introduce its most advanced long-distance service yet — the Vande Bharat Sleeper — with the new-generation train completing its final high-speed trial under the supervision of the Commissioner of Railway Safety. The first service is set to run on the Kolkata–Guwahati route, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced, adding that 12 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will be rolled out this year.
Strong indications suggest that Kerala may receive two of these flagship sleeper trains. The Centre is reportedly prioritising the introduction of Vande Bharat services in states heading for Assembly elections, a list that includes Assam, West Bengal, and Kerala.
If approved, Kerala’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper is expected to operate on the Thiruvananthapuram–Chennai route, with the Thiruvananthapuram–Bengaluru route emerging as the second likely corridor. All 12 sleeper trains are expected to be operational by the end of this year, with plans to expand the network further in 2026.
The Kolkata–Guwahati service, which will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will feature 16 modern coaches. Railway officials are making arrangements to position one train each in Kolkata and Guwahati for the inaugural event.
Tentative fares for the route have also been indicated:
- Third AC: around ₹2,300
- Second AC: around ₹3,000
- First AC: around ₹3,600
All fares include onboard meals, offering a premium overnight travel experience. With its modern design, enhanced comfort, and faster journeys, the Vande Bharat Sleeper is expected to transform long-distance night travel in India—and its likely arrival in Kerala has already generated widespread anticipation among passengers.
