India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train unveiled by Railway Min in Bengaluru

  • Minister of Railways opens new 9.2-hectare BEML hangar facility for export
  • From Bharat Sleeper Train Set Showcases Multiple Passenger-Friendly Features
  • Designed and produced in-house by BEML in a record time of 9 months, a first of its kind

In a historic event, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Railways, unveiled India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset at BEML’s Bangalore complex. The trainset, manufactured in just 9 months, marks a major achievement for BEML. Vaishnaw also inaugurated a new 9.2-acre hangar facility dedicated to the export of standard and broad gauge rolling stock, further strengthening BEML’s global presence.

The event was attended by high-ranking dignitaries including V. Somanna, Minister of State for Railways; Satish Kumar, Chairman and CEO, Railway Board; Shantanu Roy, Chairman and Managing Director, BEML; along with senior officials from Indian Railways and Integral Coach Factory (ICF)

The Vande Bharat Sleeper train set, designed by BEML, represents a significant advancement in India’s railway capabilities, combining aesthetic appeal with functionality. Constructed from Austenitic stainless steel and equipped with advanced safety features such as crash-resistant buffers and couplers, the train set meets stringent EN45545 HL3 fire safety standards. It offers a world-class passenger experience, with USB charging ports, security systems, modular pantries and accessible facilities including showers in the 1st AC car.

Speaking at the event, Ashwini Vaishnaw expressed his excitement and said, “This is a historic moment for the country. The much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper train set will now start running on the tracks of Indian Railways, providing our people with a world-class travel experience and best-in-class amenities. The dedication and expertise of BEML’s leadership and engineers have made this remarkable achievement possible.”

Highlighting the company’s six-decade legacy in railway manufacturing, Shantanu Roy, CMD of BEML, said that the Vande Bharat Sleeper train set is a milestone in India’s transport infrastructure. BEML has meticulously designed the train, focusing on integrated critical systems such as propulsion, HVAC and safety components to ensure seamless performance. The entire manufacturing process reflects BEML’s commitment to quality and precision.

Key Features:

  • Austenitic stainless steel train set
  • Crash-resistant features in train set for passenger safety
  • Best-in-class interiors with GFRP panels
  • Aerodynamic exterior look
  • Modular pantry
  • Fire safety according to EN 45545, hazard level: 03
  • Special beds and toilets for the disabled
  • Automatic exterior passenger doors
  • Sensor-based intercommunication doors
  • Remote controlled fire doors on the end side
  • Ergonomically designed odorless toilet system
  • Toilet for driver’s crew
  • Hot water shower in 1st AC car
  • Integrated reading lamp with USB charging facility
  • Public announcement and visual information system
  • Modern passenger facilities
  • Spacious luggage compartment

Train performance:

Maximum operating speed during service 160 km/h
Maximum operating speed during testing 180 km/h
Passenger capacity: Berth type Number of carriages per train Number of sleeping places
AC 3-layer sleeping places 11 611
AC 2-layer sleeping places 4 188
First class AC sleeping berths 1 24
Total 16 823
  • In a landmark event, Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the Railway Training Institute for the first time, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s history. During his visit to the Multidisciplinary Divisional Training Institute in Bangalore, Mr. Vaishnaw interacted with trainees, listened to their concerns and addressed their long-pending demands. His interaction was marked by openness and empathy as he carefully considered their issues and suggestions. The discussion also covered key issues such as training curriculum, infrastructure and career development. Mr. Vaishnaw sought inputs from trainees, demonstrating his commitment to collaborative problem-solving and inclusive decision-making.
  • In a gesture of solidarity, the Minister had lunch with the interns, an act of humility and empathy that deeply affected the interns, who felt valued and heard by their leader. This historic visit will be remembered as a turning point in the relationship between the Ministry of Railways and its interns, marking the beginning of a new era of mutual respect, trust and cooperation.
  • Later, from Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, Hon’ble Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inaugurated the gauge conversion of the Pilbhit-Shahgarh-Mailani railway section and inaugurated a new train service on that route through video conference. The event was graced by the dignified presence of Hon’ble Minister Jitin Prasad, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Electronics and Information Technology.



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