The Indian Railways is set to launch a groundbreaking addition to its fleet – the Vande Bharat Sleeper train connecting New Delhi and Srinagar. This third variant of the successful Vande Bharat series is poised to transform long-distance and overnight rail journeys in India. Let’s delve into the details of this exciting new development.
Launch and Manufacturing
- Expected launch: January 2025
- Manufacturer: BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited)
- Prototype unveiled: September 2024 by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
Route and Journey Details
Key Information:
- Route: New Delhi to Srinagar
- Distance: Over 800 km
- Journey time: Less than 13 hours
- Operated by: Northern Railway (NR) zone
Schedule:
- Departure from New Delhi: 19:00 hrs
- Arrival in Srinagar: 08:00 hrs
Stoppages:
The train will make limited stops at major stations, including:
- Ambala Cantt Junction
- Ludhiana Junction
- Kathua
- Jammu Tawi
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra
- Sangaldan
- Banihal
Infrastructure and Extension
- The train will operate on the USBRL (Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link) project, which is being completed on a mission mode.
- Future plans include extending the service to Baramulla.
Accommodation and Pricing
Classes Available:
- AC 3 Tier (3A)
- AC 2 Tier (2A)
- AC First Class (1A)
Expected Ticket Prices:
- AC 3 Tier: Approximately Rs 2,000
- AC 2 Tier: Approximately Rs 2,500
- AC First Class: Approximately Rs 3,000
Significance and Impact
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper on this route is a significant step in improving connectivity to Jammu and Kashmir. It offers several advantages:
- Reduced travel time between the national capital and Srinagar
- Enhanced comfort for overnight journeys
- Boost to tourism and economic activities in the region
- Showcase of India’s advancing rail technology
Future Prospects
The success of this route could pave the way for more Vande Bharat Sleeper services across other long-distance routes in India. It represents a new era in Indian Railways, combining speed, comfort, and efficiency for overnight travel.
Conclusion
The New Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to be a game-changer in India’s railway sector. By significantly reducing travel time and offering comfortable overnight accommodation, it promises to enhance the travel experience between these two important cities. As the launch date approaches, anticipation builds for this new chapter in Indian rail travel.
