India's First Vande Bharat Sleeper Express Set for Flag-Off on January 17

Indian Railways is set to mark a major milestone in its modernisation journey with the launch of the country's first Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off on January 17. The premium sleeper train will operate between Guwahati and Howrah, strengthening rail connectivity between Assam and West Bengal.

Ahead of its official inauguration, the newly designed Vande Bharat Sleeper train was spotted at Kamakhya Railway Station in Guwahati, drawing attention for its modern build and advanced features. The service is expected to redefine overnight rail travel by offering faster journeys, enhanced comfort, and improved safety standards.

As part of a broader railway expansion push, the Prime Minister will also flag off 11 new trains during the weekend. This includes nine Amrit Bharat Express trains connecting Assam and West Bengal to various parts of the country, including Karnataka, Haryana, Maharashtra, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Bihar, according to an official statement from the Railways.

Indian Railways has announced no RAC and no waiting list for the sleeper service, with fares starting at ₹960 for AC 3-tier, ₹1,240 for AC 2-tier, and ₹1,520 for First Class AC for shorter distances. For longer journeys, fares range between ₹2,400 and ₹3,800, offering a cost-effective alternative to air travel.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper Express is equipped with a range of modern features designed to enhance passenger safety and hygiene. These include advanced toilets with disinfectant systems, emergency talk-back units, and special facilities for Divyangjan (PwDs). The train will also operate with the Kavach safety system, while driver cabins are fitted with advanced control technologies to ensure smoother and safer operations.

The new service is expected to improve regional connectivity between Assam and West Bengal significantly. Districts such as Kamrup Metropolitan, Bongaigaon, Coochbehar, and Howrah are likely to benefit from faster and more reliable rail access. Improved connectivity could support tourism, enhance trade, and boost local businesses across the region.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper Express comes equipped with modern safety systems, advanced toilets, emergency communication units, and facilities for Divyangjan passengers. Officials say the service will improve regional connectivity, boost tourism and trade, and mark a major step forward in Indian Railways' modernisation drive.