24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train: 1,224 berths in design

Indian Railways’ 24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train is being developed to increase capacity for premium overnight travel and to improve onboard services on long night routes, as reported by The Economic Times.

The move follows positive passenger feedback from the first Vande Bharat sleeper rake and reflects rising demand for long-distance overnight journeys.

For now, Vande Bharat sleeper trains operate with 16 coaches and can accommodate 823 berths. Indian Railways plans to manufacture the expanded 24-coach trainset at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, taking total capacity to 1,224 berths. Officials said the longer formation was chosen after the first sleeper rake was flagged off on January 17 from Malda Town on the Howrah–Kamakhya route, according to The Times of India.

24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train design timeline

The 24-coach version is currently at the design stage, and officials expect the prototype to roll out by the end of 2026. The expanded configuration is intended to add berth capacity and improve onboard services on long-distance night journeys.

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Coach composition and onboard facilities

According to officials, the planned coach composition includes 17 AC three-tier coaches, five AC two-tier coaches, one AC first class coach and one AC pantry car. The dedicated pantry car is intended to improve catering services on long routes, alongside plans for mini-pantry units and linen storage spaces across coaches.

Passenger amenities outlined for the Vande Bharat sleeper include reading lights, charging points for mobile phones and laptops, Wi-Fi-enabled passenger information and infotainment systems, vacuum-assisted toilets, luggage space and updated interior fittings. The design also includes accessible toilets and ramps for divyangjan passengers.

Safety systems, technology and operating speed

Officials said the trainset will feature advanced propulsion and control systems, regenerative braking and a stainless-steel car body designed to meet current safety standards. Fire safety systems, CCTV surveillance, onboard diagnostics and integration of the Kavach train collision avoidance system are also planned.

The 24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train is designed for a maximum operating speed of 160 kmph. It will be equipped with air-spring suspension, disc brakes and noise insulation to improve ride quality during overnight travel.

For broader context on the Vande Bharat sleeper programme and its progression through trials and early introductions, see coverage from Railway Supply.

With energy-efficient systems, predictive maintenance and remote condition monitoring, officials said the expanded train reflects Indian Railways’ focus on increasing capacity while upgrading technology and passenger services.

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