Election Boost? First Vande Bharat Sleeper Announced for Poll-Bound Bengal & Assam

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced that India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will soon begin operations between Kolkata (Howrah) and Guwahati, marking a major milestone in long-distance rail travel. Following successful trial runs and mandatory safety certifications, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the service in the coming days.

Designed for High-Speed Overnight Travel

The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train has been engineered for overnight journeys at speeds of up to 180 km/h, significantly reducing travel time between eastern India and the Northeast. The 16-coach train will have a total passenger capacity of over 800 travellers.

The coach composition includes:

• 11 AC 3-tier coaches

• 4 AC 2-tier coaches

• 1 AC First Class coach

This configuration aims to cater to a wide range of passengers seeking faster and more comfortable long-distance travel.

Competitive Pricing Compared to Air Travel

One of the key highlights of the new service is its affordable fare structure, positioned as a cost-effective alternative to air travel. Indicative fares are expected to be:

• ₹2,300 for AC 3-tier (including meals)

• ₹3,000 for AC 2-tier

• ₹3,600 for AC First Class

In comparison, airfare on the same route currently ranges between ₹6,000 and ₹10,000, making the Vande Bharat Sleeper a significantly cheaper option for overnight travel.

Boost to Connectivity Between West Bengal and the Northeast

The new train service is expected to strengthen connectivity between West Bengal and the Northeastern states, offering a faster, safer, and more comfortable rail option than existing services. Officials believe this will enhance economic, cultural, and social ties between the regions.

Passengers will also benefit from modern onboard amenities, while first-class travellers will be served regionally inspired cuisine, featuring Assamese dishes when departing Guwahati and Bengali flavours when starting from Kolkata.

Political Significance Ahead of Assembly Elections

The timing of the announcement carries political significance, with assembly elections anticipated in West Bengal and Assam in the near future. The launch of the high-profile train service provides the BJP-led central government an opportunity to highlight infrastructure development and improved connectivity as part of its governance narrative.

Political observers note that the project allows the Centre to frame development-driven messaging at a time when anti-incumbency sentiments could influence electoral outcomes.

A New Benchmark in Indian Railways

The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is also being viewed as a technological and operational milestone for Indian Railways. As the first high-speed overnight train of its kind, it is designed to deliver premium services with minimal operational costs, creating a sustainable revenue model while redefining long-distance rail travel in India.