Kerala is poised to become the first state in India to receive the Vande Bharat Sleeper train, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s railway infrastructure. This initiative aims to enhance long-distance travel by providing high-speed, comfortable, and modern sleeper services.

Key Features of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train

• Passenger Capacity: Each 16-coach train can accommodate up to 1,128 passengers.
• Design and Manufacturing: Designed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai and manufactured by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML).
• Amenities: Fully air-conditioned coaches equipped with ergonomic sleeping berths, reading lights, GPS-enabled LED display systems, modular pantries, automatic doors, and the Kavach anti-collision safety technology.
• Coach Classes: The train offers three classes—AC First Class, AC 2-Tier, and AC 3-Tier—to cater to diverse passenger preferences.

Priority Routes in Kerala

The Thiruvananthapuram–Mangaluru route has been prioritized for the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train, aiming to bolster inter-zone connectivity. Other potential routes under consideration include Thiruvananthapuram–Bengaluru and Kanyakumari–Srinagar via the Konkan route.

Trial Runs and Future Plans

The first 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper train successfully completed trial runs on January 15, 2025, covering a 540-kilometer stretch between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. During these trials, the train achieved speeds up to 180 km/h, with tests conducted on braking systems, air suspension, and coupler forces.

Following the successful trials, Indian Railways has ordered the production of nine additional Vande Bharat Sleeper trains, with full-scale production of 24-coach variants expected to commence in 2026–27.

This development signifies a major upgrade to Kerala’s railway connectivity, offering passengers a blend of speed, safety, and comfort for long-distance travel.