Vande Bharat sleeper could grow from 16 to 24 coaches — Know all details here

Indian Railways is planning a 24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper for longer overnight journeys. According to TOI, Chennai’s Integral Coach Factory has been tasked with manufacturing 50 trainsets. The proposed formation adds eight coaches to the existing 16-coach version.

The proposed train would include a dedicated pantry car for heating and serving food onboard. That differs from the existing sleeper’s modular pantry units. The distinction matters: the current train already has catering facilities; the new plan provides a separate pantry coach.

The existing 16-coach sleeper accommodates 823 passengers across 11 AC 3-tier, four AC 2-tier and one First AC coach. The proposed 24-coach train’s capacity depends on its final layout, including space assigned to the pantry. Coach count alone cannot establish the berth increase.

Confirmed features of the current sleeper include ergonomically designed berths, easier-access upper-berth ladders, individual reading lights and USB charging. These provide the comparison for the larger version. TOI reports that ICF is also considering interior improvements while the new design is finalised.

BEML’s existing sleeper design includes hot-water showers in the First AC coach, alongside special berths and toilets for passengers with disabilities. The shower should not be presented as an amenity available in every class. The 24-coach version’s detailed facilities await final specifications.

BEML specifies a maximum service speed of 160 kmph and a testing speed of 180 kmph for its sleeper trainset. These are different figures. The sleeper platform also includes Kavach and regenerative braking; actual journey times depend on the route and operating conditions.