Indian Railways’ New Year Gift: First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to Launch Between Guwahati and Howrah
New Delhi January 01, 2026:-In a major New Year announcement, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, revealed that India’s first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is ready for its commercial debut.
Following the successful completion of all trials, testing, and safety certifications, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to flag off the inaugural service between Guwahati in Assam and Howrah in West Bengal later this month.
This high-speed sleeper service is designed to transform overnight travel, benefiting several districts including Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon in Assam, as well as Coochbehar, Malda, and Howrah in West Bengal.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train features a 16-coach configuration, comprising 11 three-tier AC coaches, 4 two-tier AC coaches, and 1 first-class AC coach, with a total capacity of approximately 823 passengers.
Vaishnaw highlighted that the train utilizes a completely newly designed bogie and advanced suspension system for superior ride quality. The interiors boast ergonomic ladders and safety-centric designs, ensuring a premium experience for long-distance commuters.
To maximize convenience, the schedule is optimized for evening departures and early morning arrivals, allowing passengers to save time while traveling between these two major eastern hubs.Adding a unique touch to the passenger experience, the train will offer region-specific culinary delights.
Travelers departing from Guwahati can enjoy authentic Assamese cuisine, while those boarding from Howrah will be served traditional Bengali delicacies. The Minister emphasized that 2026 will be a year of major reforms for Indian Railways, with the Vande Bharat Sleeper marking the beginning of a new era in technological innovation and regional connectivity.
This initiative underscores a significant shift toward passenger-centric services, combining the speed of the Vande Bharat platform with the comfort required for overnight journeys.