Indian Railways to unveil Vande Bharat Sleeper Train at IREE 2025
Long-distance train travel in India is about to get a major upgrade. Indian Railways will unveil the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train at the International Railway Equipment Exhibition (IREE) 2025, starting October 15 at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi.
“The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is designed to redefine long-distance travel in India,” said a senior Indian Railways official. “Passengers can expect a smooth, safe, and comfortable journey with world-class facilities.”
The train will have 16 coaches, including AC First Class, AC 2-tier, and AC 3-tier. It will carry over 1,000 passengers. Features include cushioned berths for overnight comfort, automatic doors for safety, and onboard WiFi. Its aircraft-inspired design promises a quieter ride. Safety is also a priority, with crash buffers, deformation tubes, and fire barrier walls.
Kinet Railway Solutions, a joint venture between Russian company TMH and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), will present the first AC coach design at the exhibition. A Kinet spokesperson said, “This project marks a milestone in Indian Railways’ move toward modern, high-capacity trains. We aim to deliver 120 Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains, ensuring safety and comfort for passengers.” The first prototype is expected by June 2026.
Production contracts have been awarded to BEML, Kinet Railway Solutions, and a consortium of Titagarh Rail Systems Limited and Bharat Heavy Engineering Limited (BHEL).
The trains will operate on routes such as Delhi–Patna, Mumbai, and Srinagar. Ticket prices are expected to range from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,300, similar to other premium trains like the Rajdhani Express. Services could start in December 2025, after the second trainset is ready in mid-October, ensuring uninterrupted operations.