Vande Bharat sleeper trains delayed? Railway Ministry flags issues on berth areas, window curtain handles and more

The much-awaited Vande Bharat sleeper trains, originally expected to make its debut in October, is facing hurdle after the Railways Ministry has flagged furnishings and workmanship issues. The Railways has, however, granted sanctions to start the operations of Vande Bharat.

According to a PTI report, the Railway Board pointed out furnishings and workmanship issues in a recent written communication addressed to the Director General, the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the General Managers of all the railway zones. It said, "There are issues related to furnishing and workmanship at many places in respect of sharp edges and comers at berthing area, window curtain handles, pigeon pockets between berth connectors inviting cleaning issues etc". The board added that necessary action needs to be taken in the current rake, it said, adding that necessary design improvements are also needed for future rakes. Railways minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had earlier hinted at an October launch for the train.

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Vande Bharat sleeper trains to be delayed?
Although the Board has granted in-principle approval for the operation of the 16-car Vande Bharat Sleeper rake, it has advised that certain deficiencies must be rectified before the train can enter service. The ministry also emphasised strict compliance with safety protocols, including fire safety, installation of the Kavach 4.0 train-protection system, reliable communication between loco pilot, train manager and station master, and proper maintenance of braking systems.

"Suitable setting of temperature inside coaches shall be maintained to ensure comfortable conditions to passengers, considering ambient conditions and frequent opening & closing of doors," it said.

The Railway Ministry added that the zones must ensure trained technical staff are available en route, and that the semi-permanent coupler must be able to be uncoupled within 15 minutes in emergencies. The sanctioning process was explained: once the RDSO obtains final approval from the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) after trials, it sends compliance to the ministry for operational clearance. In this case, RDSO submitted its updated compliance on September 1 2025.

"Regular announcements shall be made through the PA system informing all persons other than passengers to disembark from the train before its departure. Also, pre-recorded Passenger safety announcements in three languages (Regional, Hindi & English) should be made during the run to sensitize passengers about personal safety norms to be observed during travel," it said.

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Vande Bharat sleeper trains routes
Since the route for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is not yet finalised, the ministry’s letter issued on October 28 goes to all zones.

Elaborating the sanctioning process, officials said that once RDSO takes final approval from the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) for any newly-designed train, the CCRS forwards it to the Railway Ministry to give its sanction to start operations. "The CCRS during trial 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 said.

The Railway Ministry has also directed zones to deploy qualified and dedicated staff for the maintenance of Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset along with ensuring adequate quantity of spares and consumable required for its maintenance.

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What are the features of Vande Bharat sleeper trains?

The Vande Bharat Sleeper is a long-distance, high-speed electric multiple unit (EMU) train with multiple facilities. Sharing the video on Instagram, a content creator explained, “Inside the sleeper version of the Vande Bharat, there’s only one word after seeing its interior: amazing. The prototype has been designed by Kinet, with an operational speed of 160 kmph and a maximum speed of 180 kmph. Soon, you’ll see it running on the tracks. The first class cabin looks premium, has comfortable seats, water bottle holders, reading lights and charging points."

In the caption, he added, “Vande Bharat Sleeper First Class Cabin – where luxury meets technology! Sleek design, premium comfort, and world-class features make this cabin an absolute stunner. Perfect blend of style, space & smart travel vibes."

(With PTI inputs)