Vande Bharat sleeper’s second rake ready, but awaiting clearance in Bengaluru

BEML-built semi-high-speed sleeper train has completed production, but railway officials clarify it has not yet received permission to leave Bengaluru as inspections continue.

Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), based in Bengaluru, has manufactured India’s first semi-high-speed sleeper version of the Vande Bharat train, marking a major step in long-distance rail travel. On Monday, the second rake of the Vande Bharat Sleeper was formally handed over to the Indian Railways, triggering widespread reports that it had begun its onward journey.

However, railway officials have clarified that the rake has not yet received clearance to move out of Bengaluru. Contrary to some reports suggesting a departure, officials said the train is still undergoing mandatory inspections and procedural checks.

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According to railway sources, the second rake was moved from the BEML facility and brought to Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) railway station in Bengaluru on Monday morning. It is expected to remain at SMVT for another two to three days while technical inspections, safety checks, and paperwork are completed. Until these formalities are concluded, the rake will not be dispatched to another railway zone.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper has been designed specifically for overnight and long-distance journeys ranging from 800 km to 1,000 km. It is positioned as a faster and more efficient alternative to conventional Mail and Express trains currently operating on such routes. Like the existing Vande Bharat Chair Car services, the sleeper version has a top speed of 160 km/h. Its quicker acceleration and braking capabilities are expected to significantly reduce overall travel time on long routes.

The trainset consists of 16 coaches and offers three classes of accommodation, Third AC, Second AC, and First AC. The interior layout follows the model of existing premium AC sleeper trains, ensuring comfort while also catering to passengers from different income groups.

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Once all clearances are obtained, the rake will be transferred to the Northern Railway zone. This zone will operate the first commercial service of the Vande Bharat Sleeper and covers key regions including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.

Railway officials indicated that serious preparations are underway to introduce the Vande Bharat Sleeper as a New Year offering, subject to the completion of all technical and administrative processes.