Railway Board Clears 16-Coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train for 160 kmph Operations

The Ministry of Railways has granted approval for the introduction of a 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper train capable of operating at speeds up to 160 kmph. The sanction, communicated through Railway Board letter No. 2025/CEDO/SR/17/VB-Sleeper-160kmph, follows detailed trials and certification by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS).

Developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), the new sleeper version of the Vande Bharat is designed for premium overnight travel and marks a major step in India’s high-speed rail evolution. The train formation includes a mix of motor, trailer, and non-driving coaches built to meet the latest safety and performance parameters under the Indian Railways Permanent Way Manual (IRPWM 2024).

The Railway Board has directed zonal railways to ensure full compliance with all conditions outlined in RDSO’s Final Speed Certificate issued on January 24, 2025, before commencing commercial operations. All documentation required under Railway Board Policy Circular No. 6 (dated May 1, 2023) must be submitted to the Commission prior to the rollout.

However, certain technical and quality-related issues identified during inspection and trials must be addressed before the train enters service. These include furnishing and workmanship shortcomings such as sharp edges near berths, poorly installed curtain handles, and “pigeon pockets” between berths that could affect passenger safety and cleanliness.

The Board has also emphasized strict adherence to safety protocols, mandating SIL certification for all critical systems, installation of fire suppression systems in vulnerable electrical panels, and integration of Kavach 4.0, the indigenous train collision avoidance system.

This approval paves the way for the operational debut of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper, symbolizing the next leap in modern, high-speed overnight train travel.