Despite successful speed trials and safety tests earlier this year, the much-anticipated Vande Bharat sleeper train remains grounded. The 16-coach prototype, built by BEML for ₹120 crore and designed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), is still awaiting approval from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS). The delay stems from design objections raised by the CRS, even after the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) completed extensive speed, braking, and electrical system trials.
Design Issues Delayed Project Launch
According to railway sources, the ICF flagged over 73 safety-related design issues after receiving the rake. These included flaws in crash buffers, berth connectors, and fire protection features. Although BEML addressed these concerns, the delay pushed the train past its initial launch deadline. ICF General Manager U Subba Rao confirmed that all CRS queries have now been addressed and no major faults exist in the prototype. Officials remain optimistic about imminent clearance from the Railway Board.
Advanced Safety Tech and Kavach Installed
The sleeper version of Vande Bharat is packed with upgraded safety features. Apart from fire detection systems, it includes crashworthy couplers, front and side crash buffers, and the Kavach Train Collision Avoidance System. The train consists of 11 three-tier AC coaches, four two-tier AC coaches, and one first-class AC coach, offering a total of 823 seats. Meanwhile, ICF has already been instructed to produce nine more sleeper trains in the current financial year, pending final clearance.
