Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed on Tuesday that the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will officially launch once the second train becomes operational. The first Vande Bharat Sleeper train awaits introduction at the Shakur Basti Coaching Depot in Delhi, having completed all essential trials and safety evaluations.
The Minister elaborated that officials expect to finalize the second train’s readiness by October 15, 2025. “Both the trains will be launched together,” Vaishnaw stated, emphasizing the necessity of having two trains to ensure consistent service availability.
Choosing potential routes is a strategic move, especially with the upcoming elections in Bihar, leading to speculation about a corridor between New Delhi and Patna. Vaishnaw noted, “Once we obtain the second rake, we will decide on a route and initiate operations.”
During the press conference, Vaishnaw and Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu outlined the status of existing and forthcoming railway projects, particularly in Punjab. They highlighted a significant 18-kilometre rail link, connecting Rajpura to Mohali, which will serve as the most direct route to Chandigarh.
This new railway line not only shortens the distance by approximately 66 kilometres but also alleviates congestion on the current Rajpura-Ambala route. Vaishnaw pointed out, “This link will enhance connectivity between key regions, making travel more accessible for the public.”
The proposal also includes launching a new Vande Bharat train between New Delhi and Firozpur Cantonment. This train aims to cover 486 kilometres in a speedy 6 hours and 40 minutes, facilitating travel to significant stops, including Faridkot, Bhatinda (W), and Patiala. Vaishnaw expressed his intention to seek Prime Ministerial approval for this project.
In total, the ministers detailed nine railway projects that commenced after 2014, featuring the new Nangal Dam-Daulat Pur Chowk line and several others aimed at improving regional connectivity. These initiatives, comprising lines stretching from Chakki Bank to Mansa, and Amritsar to Chheharta, all contribute to a robust expansion of Indian Railways.
In addition, seven railway projects currently under execution include notable improvements such as the Nangal Dam-Talwara line and the doubling of the Mansa-Bhatinda line, both critical to enhancing network efficiency.
Vaishnaw disclosed plans for the redevelopment of 30 railway stations under the Amrit Bharat scheme. He highlighted that punctuality rates have significantly improved, with 29 rail divisions achieving over 90 per cent on-time performance. This success, the Minister argued, illustrates the Railways’ commitment to enriching commuter experiences and operational excellence.
As India embraces modernization and increased connectivity through its railway system, the introduction of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains marks a pivotal step toward bolstering both regional and national transport infrastructure.
