The Indian Railways is taking another leap forward with the introduction of the Vande Bharat sleeper coach, a modern marvel aimed at enhancing passenger experience on long-distance routes. Unveiled by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at BEML’s facility, this new variant is designed to offer superior comfort, safety, and speed. Here are seven fascinating facts about the Vande Bharat sleeper coach.
1. Rigorous Testing for Maximum Safety
Before it is introduced to passengers, the Vande Bharat sleeper coach will undergo 10 days of rigorous trials and further track testing. These tests are crucial to ensure the coach meets the highest safety standards before being made available for public use.
2. Superior Speed and Efficiency
With a testing speed of 180 kmph and a maximum operating speed of 160 kmph, the Vande Bharat sleeper train is set to outpace the Rajdhani Express. Its self-propelled train set allows for quicker acceleration and deceleration, significantly improving average travel speeds.
3. Enhanced Passenger Comfort
Passenger comfort is a top priority in the Vande Bharat sleeper coach. The train features extra cushioning on berths, ergonomic restrooms, and a jerk-free ride with fully sealed gangways that keep the environment dust-free and air-conditioned.
4. State-of-the-Art Amenities
The sleeper coach is equipped with European-standard amenities, including GFRP panels, sensor-based intercommunication doors, and automatic exterior passenger doors. It also offers modular pantries, integrated reading lights with USB charging ports, and special berths and toilets for passengers with disabilities.
5. Advanced Safety Features
Safety has been significantly enhanced in the Vande Bharat sleeper coach. The train includes crashworthy elements such as specially designed crash buffers and couplers. Additionally, all materials used in the train adhere to the highest fire safety standards.
6. Capacity and Design
The 16-coach prototype of the Vande Bharat sleeper train includes 11 AC 3-tier coaches, 4 AC 2-tier coaches, and 1 AC First Class coach, with a total capacity to accommodate 823 passengers. The train’s interior design prioritizes both comfort and safety, making it an attractive option for long-distance travel.
7. Rollout Timeline
Passenger operations for the Vande Bharat sleeper coach are expected to begin in three months. Once production starts, it’s anticipated that two to three trains will be rolled out every month, marking a significant expansion in India’s rail network.
Conclusion
The Vande Bharat sleeper coach is poised to set new standards in Indian rail travel, offering passengers a blend of luxury, safety, and speed. As the trials and testing phases progress, anticipation builds for the public debut of this advanced sleeper train.
