Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Tuesday that the much-anticipated Vande Bharat sleeper trains will launch once the second train is ready for regular service, which is expected by October 15, 2025. The announcement comes as the first train stands ready for launch at the Shakur Basti Coaching Depot in Delhi, having completed essential trials and testing.
During a media briefing, Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of synchronizing the launches of both sleeper trains to maintain a continuous flow of train operations. “That’s why we are waiting for a second rake. Once we get it, we will decide any route and start operations,” he clarified, hinting at possible routes amid speculation about a service between New Delhi and Patna, particularly with Bihar elections approaching.
The Minister, accompanied by Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu, also shared updates on several railway projects in Punjab. They highlighted the upcoming 18-kilometre Rajpura-Mohali line, which will enhance connectivity to Chandigarh via a shorter route, significantly reducing the travel distance by approximately 66 kilometres and easing congestion on various existing routes.
A new Vande Bharat train connecting New Delhi and Firozpur Cantonment is also in the pipeline. Vaishnaw shared that this train would cover the 486-kilometre distance in around 6 hours and 40 minutes, enhancing connectivity to several key stations including Faridkot, Bhatinda, Dhuri, and Patiala. “I will request the Prime Minister to approve the Firozpur-Delhi Vande Bharat train,” he stated.
Vaishnaw revealed that nine significant railway projects commissioned since 2014 include enhancements like the new Nangal Dam-Daulat Pur Chowk line spanning 61 kilometres at a cost of ₹672 crore, and others aimed at modernizing railway infrastructure. India’s railway network aims to offer faster and more efficient transport solutions.
In addition to completed projects, seven more railway initiatives are currently under execution, including new lines and doubling of existing routes, with investments totalling several crores, sure to bolster regional connectivity.
Under the Amrit Bharat station redevelopment scheme, plans to redevelop 30 stations highlight the government’s focus on modernizing rail travel further.
In terms of punctuality, the Minister shared proud statistics, revealing that 29 railway divisions, including Malda, Mysore, and Trivandrum, achieved an impressive 90 percent punctuality rate, reflecting the ongoing improvements in service and operational reliability.
The development of the Vande Bharat sleeper train marks a transformative step toward enhancing India’s railway services, making long-distance travel more comfortable and efficient. The anticipation surrounding this initiative continues to grow, with travelers eagerly awaiting updates on schedules and routes.
