Vande Bharat sleeper rolls out for trials! The first prototype Vande Bharat sleeper train set has left ICF Chennai for field trials by the RDSO, sources told TOI. The new Indian Railways train, manufactured by BEML in collaboration with ICF, had been undergoing quality and standard checks at ICF for the last 2 months.
As the name suggests, Vande Bharat sleeper is a sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat chair car trains. According to Indian Railways, the Vande Bharat sleeper will offer superior ride comfort compared to the premium Rajdhani Express trains. With a top speed of 160 kmph and a higher average speed, the Vande Bharat sleeper aims to revolutionize overnight travel on the Indian Railways network.
Sources told TOI that the Vande Bharat sleeper prototype will undergo extensive trials by RDSO on the Khajuraho to Mahabo section of Indian Railways. The train will be rolled out for commercial passenger operations once it has a safety clearance.
Vande Bharat sleeper: Top features
In a recent statement to the Rajya Sabha, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the Vande Bharat sleeper trains, designed for long and medium-distance travel, incorporate contemporary features and passenger facilities.
The notable specifications and amenities in Vande Bharat sleeper prototype include:
- KAVACH installation
- Jerk free rides with secure semi permanent couplers
- Better ride comfort with more comfortable berths, redesigned ladder for access to upper berths
- Compliance with EN-45545 HL3 fire safety protocols
- Anti Climbers with shock absorption
- EN standard-compliant carbody with enhanced safety design
- Energy-efficient regenerative braking mechanism
- Superior operational speed with improved acceleration and deceleration
- Emergency communication system linking passengers with Train Manager/Loco Pilot
- Specially designed facilities for Passengers with Restricted Mobility (PRM) in end driving coaches
- Automatic door system with central controls and sealed gangways
- Integrated Coach Monitoring System overseeing amenities like Air conditioning and Saloon Lighting
- Security cameras throughout all carriages
