Indian Railways to Launch First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train on Kolkata–Guwahati Route

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train on the Kolkata–Guwahati route. The train is ready for operation following successful testing and certification, and it will offer modern overnight travel with improved safety and comfort features. 

India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Class Train Set to Launch 

The Vande Bharat sleeper train operating between Kolkata and Guwahati will mark the debut of overnight services under the Vande Bharat brand. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the train is fully tested and certified. The expected launch date is January 18 or January 19, 2026, with final confirmation within 2 to 3 days. 

Fares are designed to remain affordable. Approximate pricing includes ₹2,300 for 3rd AC with meals, ₹3,000 for 2nd AC, and ₹3,600 for 1st AC, significantly lower than airfares on the same route, which range between ₹6,000 to ₹8,000. 
 
"The fares have been fixed keeping them substantially lower than air travel. Guwahati–Howrah air travel costs around Rs 6,000–8,000. In Vande Bharat, the 3rd AC fare will be around Rs 2,300 including food, 2nd AC around Rs 3,000, and 1st AC around Rs 3,600. The fares have been designed keeping the middle class in mind," said Vaishnaw, as per news reports. 

Features and Passenger Amenities 

The 16-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train has been designed to handle journeys longer than 1,000 km. Major enhancements include improved suspension systems, energy-efficient traction, and aerodynamic structure.  

Comfort has been prioritised with features like automatic doors, upgraded toilets, sealed gangways, and digital passenger information displays. 

Safety mechanisms include the KAVACH collision avoidance system, aerosol-based fire suppression, CCTV surveillance, emergency communication units, strengthened couplers, and designated amenities for differently abled passengers. 

Read More: Railway Sector Recap 2025: Transformation and Milestones Achieved by the Indian Railways! 

Cultural Integration and Regional Engagement 

The onboard experience will reflect the cultural diversity between the two regions. Passengers travelling from Guwahati will be served Assamese cuisine, while travellers from Kolkata will receive Bengali dishes. The inclusion of regional food is aimed at providing a more familiar experience to passengers during long journeys. 

This new sleeper train aligns with Indian Railways' ongoing efforts to modernise its services and improve passenger satisfaction on longer travel routes. 

Conclusion 

The launch of the Kolkata–Guwahati Vande Bharat sleeper train introduces modern facilities for overnight travellers along with enhanced safety, comfort, and regional hospitality. It brings a significant addition to Indian Railways’ expanding service network. 

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