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The Midnight Express: India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Set to Debut Tomorrow!
Summary: Indian Railways transitions from day-trips to dream-trips! The much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper starts its maiden journey from Howrah to Guwahati on January 17, 2026. With 180 kmph capability, regional "gourmet" menus, and KAVACH safety, overnight travel will never be the same again.
As the sun sets on January 16, 2026, the Indian Railways is on the cusp of a "Sleeper Revolution." Tomorrow, the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset will be flagged off, marking a historic shift from short-duration intercity trips to premium long-distance overnight travel.
The Howrah-Guwahati Corridor: 3 Hours Faster
The inaugural route connects the bustling hub of Howrah (West Bengal) with the gateway of the North-East, Guwahati (Assam). While traditional legends like the Saraighat Express take 17 hours, the Vande Bharat Sleeper will zip through in just 14 hours.
| Feature | Conventional Express (Saraighat) | Vande Bharat Sleeper |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | ~17 Hours | ~14 Hours |
| Maximum Speed | 110–130 kmph | 160 kmph (Tested up to 180 kmph) |
| Safety System | Manual / Standard | KAVACH 5.0 (Automatic) |
| Cuisine | Standard Pantry | Regional Gourmet Menu |
Vande Bharat 4.0: High-Tech at 180 kmph
The Sleeper version isn't just a "train with beds." It is built on the Vande Bharat 4.0 platform, featuring:
- KAVACH 5.0: The latest evolution of India's "Electronic Chaperone" that prevents collisions and over-speeding automatically.
- Super Acceleration: It hits 0 to 100 kmph in a staggering 52 seconds-faster than many high-speed trains in Japan.
- Silent Cabins: Advanced insulation ensures that the "clatter" of the tracks stays outside, giving you a peaceful night's sleep.
Five-Star Comfort: More Than Just a Berth
Indian Railways has focused heavily on Passenger Experience (PX). The interiors feel more like a boutique hotel than a train coach:
- Ergonomic Berths: Extra cushioning and redesigned ladders for senior citizens.
- Breathe Easy: UV-C lamp-based disinfection systems kill 99% of germs in the air conditioning.
- Smart Storage: Dedicated zones for heavy luggage and under-berth spaces designed for the modern traveler.
A Culinary Journey: "Local Flavours on Fast Tracks"
Forget the standard "Veg Thali." The new Vande Bharat menu is a tribute to India’s diversity.
- Heading to Bengal? Savour Murgir Jhol and Kosha Paneer.
- Traveling through Andhra? Enjoy the spicy Kodi Kura.
- Breakfast Special: Maharashtra’s Kanda Poha or Gujarat’s Methi Thepla.
The Grand Vision: 4,500 Trains by 2047
With an occupancy rate hitting a record 105%, the demand is undeniable. The government plans to scale up to 800 Vande Bharat sets by 2030, eventually reaching 4,500 by 2047. This isn't just about speed; it's about making "Made in India" a global gold standard in mobility.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Launch, Indian Railways 2026 News, Howrah to Guwahati Vande Bharat
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