What Sets the Guwahati–Kolkata Vande Bharat Sleeper Apart
Guwahati, Jan 11: Indian Railways is poised to usher in a new era of long-distance rail travel connecting the Northeast Region.
For the first time, A flagship service – upcoming launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express on the Guwahati–Kolkata corridor – is expected to significantly ease overnight journeys while reinforcing connectivity between the Northeast and Eastern India.
The state-of-the-art sleeper train has been designed to cater to passengers undertaking long hauls between Assam and West Bengal, offering a faster, safer and more comfortable alternative to conventional mail and express trains.
Visually, the Guwahati–Kolkata Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will stand out with its aerodynamic exterior and refined interiors, reflecting the latest achievements in indigenous rail engineering.
The modern design not only improves energy efficiency but also underscores India’s growing capability in manufacturing world-class railway technology.
Railway officials said the service would play a crucial role in bridging geographical distances and integrating the Northeast more closely with the economic and cultural hubs of Eastern India.
According to Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) officials, the Guwahati–Kolkata Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will operate with a 16-coach rake capable of carrying 823 passengers.
The composition includes 11 AC three-tier coaches, four AC two-tier coaches and one First Class AC coach, allowing travellers to choose from multiple premium accommodation options based on comfort and affordability.
A major highlight of the new service is its passenger-centric design aimed at making overnight journeys less tiring and more convenient.
The train will feature ergonomically designed, well-cushioned berths to ensure restful sleep, complemented by advanced suspension systems that minimise jerks and vibrations even at higher speeds.
Noise-reduction technology has been incorporated to create a quieter and more relaxing onboard environment, a key improvement over traditional long-distance trains.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will also introduce automatic sliding doors with sealed vestibules, enhancing safety while maintaining internal temperature and reducing external noise.
A modern Passenger Information System will provide real-time updates on train movement, upcoming stations and safety instructions, improving overall travel awareness for passengers.
Special attention has been given to hygiene, accessibility and inclusivity. The train will be equipped with contemporary, well-ventilated toilets supported by advanced disinfection technology to maintain high cleanliness standards throughout the journey.
Dedicated facilities for Divyangjan passengers, including improved access features, are expected to make the train more inclusive and user-friendly.
Safety systems form the backbone of the new-generation sleeper service. Officials said the train will be fitted with the indigenous Kavach automatic train protection system, designed to prevent collisions and overspeeding.
In addition, emergency passenger talk-back units will enable direct communication with train staff in critical situations, while a state-of-the-art driver’s cabin with advanced control interfaces will enhance operational safety and efficiency.
The introduction of this service is expected to bring tangible benefits to several districts along the route.
In Assam, areas such as Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon are likely to see improved passenger movement. Besides, several districts in West Bengal including Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Malda, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly and Howrah are set to gain from enhanced rail connectivity.
Railway officials believe the sleeper service will act as a catalyst for regional development by facilitating smoother movement of people, boosting tourism, supporting trade and strengthening socio-economic ties between the Northeast and Eastern India.
Faster and more reliable overnight travel is also expected to benefit students, professionals, traders and tourists who frequently commute between the two regions.
With the launch of the Guwahati–Kolkata Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, Indian Railways aims to reaffirm its commitment to innovation, passenger comfort and safety, while advancing its broader vision of a modern, efficient and future-ready national railway network that integrates the Northeast more closely with the rest of the country. (With inputs from IANS).