### India's First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: A New Era in Rail Travel The Indian Railways is set to revolutionize long-distance travel with the launch of its first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, connecting Guwahati and Howrah. This new service, scheduled to commence in January 2026, aims to provide a modern, comfortable, and cost-effective overnight travel experience. The sleeper variant is specifically designed for long journeys, featuring modern berths, improved interiors, and enhanced safety features, marking a significant milestone in India's rail transport history [https://www.rediff.com/news/report/first-vande-bharat-sleeper-train-between-guwahati-howrah/20260102.htm]. ### Structure of the Launch and Features 1. **Launch Details** - The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with operations expected to begin around January 18-19, 2026 [https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/pm-modi-to-launch-kolkata-guwahati-vande-bharat-sleeper-train-soon-railway-minister-ashwini-vaishnaw-13752648.html]. - The train will operate on the Guwahati-Kolkata route, enhancing connectivity between East India and the Northeast [https://indianexpress.com/article/india/vande-bharat-sleeper-trains-routes-12-trains-set-for-launch-2026-10450120]. 2. **Train Features** - The train will consist of 16 AC coaches, including eleven 3-tier, four 2-tier, and one AC coach, accommodating up to 823 passengers [https://yespunjab.com/first-vande-bharat-sleeper-train-to-start-running-between-guwahati-and-howrah-in-jan]. - It promises modern amenities, advanced safety technologies, and a top speed of 180 km/h, ensuring a smooth and fast travel experience [https://www.livemint.com/news/india/first-vande-bharat-sleeper-train-to-run-on-guwahati-kolkata-route-check-fares-features-and-other-key-details-11767260894685.html]. 3. **Cost and Accessibility** - Fares for the sleeper service are expected to range from ₹2,300 to ₹3,600, making it a budget-friendly alternative to air travel [https://www.livemint.com/news/india/first-vande-bharat-sleeper-train-to-run-on-guwahati-kolkata-route-check-fares-features-and-other-key-details-11767260894685.html]. - The service is designed to cater to various travelers, including business professionals, families, students, and tourists [https://www.ptcnews.tv/nation/pm-modi-to-flag-off-first-vande-bharat-sleeper-train-from-guwahati-to-kolkata-4419383]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Speed and Safety Trials**: The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train has successfully completed high-speed trials at 180 km/h, demonstrating its capability for safe and efficient travel [https://www.news365times.com/vande-bharat-sleeper-train-completes-high-speed-trial-at-180km-h-on-kota-nagda-section]. - **Passenger Capacity**: With a total of 16 coaches, the train can accommodate a significant number of passengers, enhancing its utility for long-distance travel [https://indianexpress.com/article/india/vande-bharat-sleeper-trains-routes-12-trains-set-for-launch-2026-10450120]. - **Market Positioning**: The introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is part of a broader strategy to modernize Indian Railways and compete with air travel, particularly for overnight journeys [https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/from-rajdhani-express-to-vande-bharat-sleeper-what-india-s-future-long-distance-train-travel-will-look-like-13753029.html]. ### Conclusion: A Transformative Step for Indian Railways The launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train represents a **significant advancement in India's rail travel**, promising to enhance passenger comfort and safety while providing a cost-effective alternative to air travel. 1. **Launch Timeline**: Expected around January 18-19, 2026, with PM Modi's inauguration [https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/pm-modi-to-launch-kolkata-guwahati-vande-bharat-sleeper-train-soon-railway-minister-ashwini-vaishnaw-13752648.html]. 2. **Modern Features**: Equipped with advanced safety features and modern amenities, the train aims to redefine overnight travel [https://www.rediff.com/news/report/first-vande-bharat-sleeper-train-between-guwahati-howrah/20260102.htm]. 3. **Affordability**: Competitive pricing makes it an attractive option for various travelers [https://www.livemint.com/news/india/first-vande-bharat-sleeper-train-to-run-on-guwahati-kolkata-route-check-fares-features-and-other-key-details-11767260894685.html]. This initiative is poised to reshape the landscape of long-distance rail travel in India, making it more accessible and enjoyable for all.