Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will launch once the second unit is ready for regular service, expected by October 15, 2025. The Minister shared these details during a media briefing on Tuesday, discussing various railway projects and developments.
One sleeper train currently stands ready for launch at the Shakur Basti Coaching Depot in Delhi after completing the necessary trials and tests performed by railway officials. Vaishnaw explained that launching both trains simultaneously ensures effective service continuity.
“We are waiting for the second rake. Once we receive it, we will determine the routes and commence operations,” Vaishnaw stated. Observers speculate that the inaugural route may link New Delhi and Patna, particularly as Bihar prepare for elections later this year.
In addition to the sleeper trains, Vaishnaw, alongside Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu, provided updates on upcoming railway infrastructure in Punjab. The new 18-kilometre Rajpura-Mohali line will connect these regions to Chandigarh, significantly shortening travel distance while improving connectivity.
“This line will ease traffic on the existing Rajpura-Ambala route and reduce the journey time by approximately 66 kilometres,” the Minister noted. The new Vande Bharat service will also aim to enhance intercity travel between New Delhi and Firozpur Cantonment.
The proposed route will connect key stations like Faridkot, Bhatinda (W), Dhuri, and Patiala, covering 486 kilometres in about six hours and 40 minutes. Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of this route by saying, “I will request the Prime Minister to approve the Firozpur-Delhi Vande Bharat train.”
Highlighting the Railway Ministry’s achievements since 2014, Vaishnaw listed nine completed projects, such as the Nangal Dam-Daulat Pur Chowk line and the doubling of the Chakki Bank-Bharoli line. These projects signal the government’s commitment to enhancing railway infrastructure.
Moreover, seven new projects are currently in execution, including the ambitious Nangal Dam-Talwara new line and multiple doubling initiatives vital for improving service efficiency. These efforts represent a substantial investment in railway connectivity across northern India.
Vaishnaw also mentioned that under the Amrit Bharat station redevelopment scheme, 30 railway stations will undergo significant upgrades, ensuring a modern travel experience for passengers.
“29 rail divisions—including Malda, Mysore, and Nagpur—have achieved impressive punctuality rates, exceeding 90 percent,” he added, highlighting the improved reliability of train services.
The launch of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains reflects the broader objectives of the Indian Railways to offer enhanced travel options and connect major cities swiftly and effectively. As these developments unfold, railway officials emphasize their confidence in their capacity to meet growing passenger demand while maintaining high service standards.
