Indian Railways will soon introduce its first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, connecting Guwahati in Assam with Howrah in West Bengal, marking a major expansion of the Vande Bharat network into overnight travel.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Railways, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced at Rail Bhawan on Thursday that all trials, testing and certification of the sleeper variant have been successfully completed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to flag off the train later this month.
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The minister described the development as a significant milestone for Indian Railways and said 2026 would see several passenger-focused reforms across the rail network.
Route coverage, capacity and onboard features
The Guwahati–Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will benefit multiple districts across Assam and West Bengal, including Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon in Assam, and Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Maldah, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly and Howrah in West Bengal.
The train will run with 16 coaches, comprising 11 AC three-tier coaches, four AC two-tier coaches and one first-class AC coach, with a total passenger capacity of around 823.
Ashwini Vaishnaw further said the sleeper train has been built on a newly designed bogie with upgraded suspension systems to improve ride quality and stability. Ergonomic interiors, redesigned ladders and enhanced safety features have been incorporated across coaches.
How much time it will take to reach Guwahati from Howrah?
The train’s schedule will offer a comfortable, safe, and high-quality travel experience to support overnight travel, departing from the originating station in the evening and arriving at the destination early the next morning.
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Passengers will enjoy region-specific culinary offerings during their journey. Train leaving from Guwahati will feature authentic Assamese cuisine, while train starting from Kolkata will serve traditional Bengali delicacies.
Among its technical features are semi-high-speed capability with a design speed of up to 180 kmph, automatic doors, KAVACH safety systems, CCTV coverage in all coaches, improved fire detection and suppression systems, emergency communication units, and special facilities for Divyangjan passengers.
