The much-anticipated Vande Bharat sleeper train, expected to redefine overnight rail travel in India, has faced another setback. The Indian Railways has flagged multiple issues related to furnishing, workmanship, and safety compliance, delaying the project’s official launch.

The Ministry of Railways confirmed in a recent communication that despite significant progress in design and testing, the first 16-car Vande Bharat sleeper rake still requires corrective measures before it can be cleared for passenger operations.

Railway Ministry highlights design and furnishing flaws

In a letter addressed to the Director General of the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and General Managers of all railway zones, the Railway Board cited several technical and workmanship deficiencies.

“There are issues related to furnishing and workmanship at many places in respect of sharp edges and corners at the berthing area, window curtain handles, and pigeon pockets between berth connectors, which are likely to cause cleaning issues,” the board said.

The letter emphasised that corrective action must be taken immediately to ensure passenger safety and comfort. The ministry also directed that future rakes incorporate design improvements based on the feedback received during the current rake’s inspection and trial phases.

Trial and approval process

Officials clarified that any newly designed train, including the Vande Bharat sleeper, requires final approval from the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) before commercial deployment.

“The CCRS, during trials, conveys its observations to the RDSO for compliance. In the case of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, the RDSO sent its updated compliance on September 1, 2025,” officials told PTI.

Once the CCRS is satisfied with safety and performance standards, it forwards its recommendation to the Railway Ministry for final sanction.

Route and operational readiness yet to be finalised

The Railway Ministry, in a follow-up circular dated October 28, instructed all zones to comply with RDSO’s operational conditions for speeds up to 160 kmph. However, the route for the Vande Bharat sleeper service is yet to be confirmed.

The letter also reiterated the need for advanced safety and communication features, including:

  • Installation of Kavach 4.0, the indigenous train protection system.
  • Enhanced fire safety mechanisms.
  • Reliable communication systems between loco pilots, train managers, and station masters.
  • Proper maintenance of all types of brake systems before rollout.

A key step in Indian Railways’ modernisation plan

The Vande Bharat sleeper train is one of the most ambitious projects under Indian Railways’ ongoing modernisation plan. It aims to combine the speed and design of semi-high-speed trains with the comfort of overnight travel, offering spacious berths and upgraded interiors.

Once operational, the sleeper variant will complement existing Vande Bharat Express services, providing a premium overnight option for long-distance routes such as Delhi–Mumbai, Delhi–Chennai, and Bengaluru–Kolkata.

Conclusion

While the Railway Ministry remains optimistic about resolving the identified issues, it has not announced a new launch date for the Vande Bharat sleeper trains. Industry insiders expect that after necessary modifications, the first service could begin in early 2026.

For now, the project remains a symbol of both progress and patience — showcasing India’s drive toward indigenous rail innovation while underscoring the complexities of ensuring world-class safety and comfort standards.