India is set to take a historic leap in long-distance rail travel with the launch of its first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper train on the Guwahati–Kolkata route, a move that significantly strengthens connectivity between eastern and northeastern India. This new service marks a major milestone for Indian Railways, introducing high-speed, overnight travel combined with world-class comfort, safety, and modern technology. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has confirmed that the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, will flag off the inaugural service in the coming days, following the successful completion of all mandatory testing and certification processes.
The selection of the Guwahati–Kolkata corridor for India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper service is strategically important. Guwahati serves as the gateway to the Northeast, while Kolkata remains a key economic, cultural, and transportation hub of eastern India. The new sleeper train is expected to drastically reduce travel fatigue, improve journey reliability, and provide a premium alternative to conventional overnight trains. According to the Railway Minister, this service represents a new era of long-distance rail travel, offering enhanced safety, faster speeds, and a modern onboard experience comparable to global standards.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed the announcement and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for approving the prestigious service for the region. In a post on X dated January 1, he highlighted that the Guwahati–Kolkata Vande Bharat Sleeper train will greatly benefit passengers of both Assam and West Bengal. He also thanked Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for consistently supporting Assam’s railway infrastructure and connectivity needs. The announcement has been widely seen as a boost to the Northeast’s integration with the national transport network.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper train has already demonstrated its technical excellence during final high-speed trials on the Kota–Nagda section, where it achieved speeds of up to 180 kmph. Built indigenously under the Make in India initiative, the train reflects India’s growing capabilities in advanced rail engineering. The rake will consist of 16 coaches, including 11 three-tier AC coaches, four two-tier AC coaches, and one first AC coach, offering a total passenger capacity of 823. This configuration ensures that the train caters to a wide range of travelers, from middle-class families to premium passengers.
Railway officials have indicated that fares have been kept competitive while offering premium facilities. The expected ticket prices are around Rs 2,300 for 3AC, Rs 3,000 for 2AC, and Rs 3,600 for first AC, with food included in the fare. These prices make the Vande Bharat Sleeper an attractive option for business travelers, students, families, and tourists who seek a faster, safer, and more comfortable overnight journey between Guwahati and Kolkata.
What truly sets the Vande Bharat Sleeper apart is its next-generation onboard design and passenger-centric features. The train introduces upgraded berths with better cushioning for improved sleep quality, redesigned interiors with modern lighting, and enhanced noise reduction for a quieter journey. Automatic doors with vestibules improve safety and climate control, while superior suspension systems ensure a smoother ride even at higher speeds. These features collectively aim to redefine overnight rail travel in India.
Safety has been given top priority in the Vande Bharat Sleeper project. The train is equipped with the Kavach anti-collision system, an emergency talk-back system for passengers, advanced driver cab controls, and state-of-the-art monitoring systems. Sanitation standards have also been upgraded through the use of disinfectant technology, ensuring cleaner and more hygienic coaches. The aerodynamic exterior design not only enhances speed and energy efficiency but also contributes to reduced noise and better stability.
The introduction of the Guwahati–Kolkata Vande Bharat Sleeper train is expected to have far-reaching economic and social impacts. Improved overnight connectivity will boost tourism, facilitate business travel, and strengthen people-to-people ties between eastern India and the Northeast. For a region that has long demanded faster and more reliable rail services, this development is being seen as a symbol of inclusion, progress, and modernisation.
In essence, India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train is not just a new rail service; it is a statement of intent. By bringing cutting-edge technology, comfort, and safety to long-distance overnight journeys, Indian Railways is setting a new benchmark for the future of train travel. The Guwahati–Kolkata route, now at the center of this transformation, stands to benefit immensely as the nation moves toward a faster, more connected, and modern rail network.
