Plan to Build 260 Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets: Ashwini Vaishnaw

New Delhi: The development of new rolling stock like the Vande Bharat Sleeper requires a comprehensive approach, combining technical innovation, strategic planning, and manufacturing to ensure safe, reliable, and comfortable travel. The process involves prototype development, extensive testing, trials, and subsequent series production.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper train program is being executed in phases through prototype development, trials, and series production by BEML, Integral Coach Factory (Chennai), and technology partners. The train sets will be gradually introduced into regular passenger service based on demand and operational readiness. A total of 260 Vande Bharat Sleeper train sets are planned for production.
To enhance passenger experience and set new standards for safety and comfort, these train sets will feature modern coaches equipped with advanced safety and passenger amenities, including:
•    Shock-free semi-permanent couplers and anti-climbers
•    Armored design with high acceleration at a design-operating speed of 160 km/h
•    Crash-proof car body design compliant with EN standards
•    Fire safety measures including fire barrier doors at both ends of each coach, aerosol-based fire detection and suppression in electrical cabinets and toilets
•    Energy-efficient regenerative braking system
•    Air-conditioning units with UV-C lamp-based sterilization, neutralizing 99% of harmful bacteria
•    Centrally controlled automatic plug doors and fully sealed wide aisles
•    CCTV in all coaches and emergency talk-back units for communication between passengers and train manager/driver
•    Special toilets in driving coaches for differently-abled passengers at both ends
•    Centralized Coach Monitoring System for better monitoring of passenger amenities such as air-conditioning and saloon lighting
•    Ergonomically designed ladders for easy access to upper berths
This information was provided by Union Railway Minister, Minister of Information & Broadcasting, and Minister of Electronics & IT, Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.