Launch of Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Connecting Guwahati and Kolkata

The Vande Bharat sleeper train service between Guwahati and Kolkata is set to launch soon, with Prime Minister Modi officiating the event. This new train promises to offer a comfortable travel experience at significantly lower fares compared to air travel. With a capacity of 823 passengers and advanced features, it aims to cater to the middle-class traveler. The service is expected to commence around mid-January, with a focus on regional cuisine for onboard meals. This initiative marks a significant milestone in enhancing rail connectivity in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 2, 2026, 09:55 IST

Introduction of Vande Bharat Sleeper Train

New Delhi, Jan 2: The highly anticipated Vande Bharat sleeper train service between Guwahati and Kolkata is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month, as announced by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday.

Vaishnaw indicated that the train services are expected to commence within the next 15 to 20 days, likely around January 18 or 19. He mentioned that the Prime Minister has been requested to flag off the service, and he will confirm the exact date in the coming days.

This new train, featuring 16 coaches, can accommodate up to 823 passengers and is designed to reach speeds of 180 km/h. However, it will operate at a speed of 120-130 km/h while traveling between the two cities, passing through key districts in Assam and West Bengal.

Describing this initiative as a significant achievement for the nation, Vaishnaw noted that the ticket prices for the Vande Bharat sleeper train will be considerably lower than those of air travel.

The fare structure includes approximately Rs 2,300 for 3rd AC, Rs 3,000 for 2nd AC, and Rs 3,600 for 1st AC, which will also cover meal costs. These prices have been set with the middle-class traveler in mind.

In comparison, air travel from Guwahati to Kolkata typically costs between Rs 6,000 and Rs 8,000. The per-kilometer fares for the train will be Rs 3.8 for 1st AC, Rs 3.1 for 2nd AC, and Rs 2.4 for 3rd AC.

According to the railway minister's presentation, the train consists of 11 3-AC coaches, four 2-AC coaches, and one 1-AC coach, with a total of 823 berths: 611 in 3rd AC, 188 in 2nd AC, and 24 in 1st AC.

Additional features of the train include ergonomically designed berths with enhanced cushioning, automatic doors for easier access, improved ride comfort through advanced suspension and noise reduction, an automatic train protection system (Kavach), an emergency communication system, and disinfectant technology to uphold high sanitation standards.

Vaishnaw highlighted that the disinfectant technology is capable of eliminating 99.9% of germs, similar to that used in the Vande Bharat chair-car version.

He also mentioned that production is being increased, with eight more trains expected to be operational within six months. By the end of this year, a total of 12 trains will be ready, and production will accelerate next year as the supply chain becomes fully established.

Regarding catering, trains departing from Guwahati will feature Assamese cuisine, while those from Kolkata will serve Bengali dishes.