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Indian Railways has outlined plans to develop a longer 24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train to meet rising demand for premium overnight travel on busy long-distance routes. The move follows positive passenger feedback from the recently introduced 16-coach sleeper variant, which offers 823 berths. The new configuration, to be manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, will increase capacity to 1,224 berths per train and include a dedicated pantry car, improved onboard facilities and advanced safety systems, with the prototype targeted for completion in 2026.
Indian Railways is preparing to expand its Vande Bharat sleeper programme by introducing a 24-coach trainset aimed at improving capacity and comfort on long-distance night journeys. The decision comes after encouraging feedback from passengers using the 16-coach Vande Bharat sleeper trains, which were rolled out recently and are currently operating with 823 berths. Advertisement
The proposed 24-coach version will significantly increase passenger capacity to 1,224 berths per train. Manufacturing will be undertaken at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, a key production unit for modern rolling stock under the Make in India programme. Railway officials have indicated that detailed design work is underway and a prototype is expected to be ready in 2026.
As per the planned coach composition, the longer sleeper train will include 17 AC three-tier coaches, five AC two-tier coaches, one AC First Class coach and one AC pantry car. The inclusion of a full pantry car marks a shift from earlier configurations and is expected to improve catering services on overnight routes. Mini pantry units and dedicated spaces for linen and supplies are also part of the layout.
Passenger facilities planned for the new trains include ergonomically designed berths, individual reading lights, charging points for electronic devices, modern passenger information systems and vacuum-based toilets. The design also provides for better luggage storage and accessibility features for passengers with reduced mobility.
From a technical standpoint, the 24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train will be equipped with advanced propulsion and control systems, regenerative braking and stainless-steel car bodies designed for durability and safety. Integrated fire detection systems, CCTV surveillance and the Kavach train collision avoidance system are planned to enhance operational safety. The trainsets are being designed for a maximum speed of 160 kmph, in line with other Vande Bharat variants.
The expansion of the sleeper variant aligns with Indian Railways broader strategy to modernise long-distance travel by offering higher capacity trains with improved comfort, while maintaining operational efficiency on high-demand corridors.
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