Delhi: Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) has revised the rollout timeline for the first prototype of the much-anticipated Vande Bharat Sleeper train. The initial plan to unveil the trainset by June 2026 has now been postponed by six months, with the new expected launch set for December 2026.
The update was shared by RVNL Chairman and Managing Director Saleem Ahmad during the company’s fourth-quarter earnings call, where he emphasized the strategic importance of the high-value national project.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Project Timeline Revised
Earlier, RVNL had indicated in February that the first prototype would be delivered to Indian Railways by June 2026. However, the schedule has now been pushed back, reflecting adjustments in development and execution timelines.
Despite the delay, the project continues to remain a key priority under RVNL’s rolling stock expansion and modernization programme for Indian Railways.
Joint Venture Model with Kinet Railway Solutions
The Vande Bharat Sleeper programme is being executed through Kinet Railway Solutions, a joint venture between RVNL and Russian rolling stock manufacturer Transmashholding (TMH).
The project carries an estimated value of around ₹14,400 crore and also includes a long-term 35-year maintenance commitment, making it one of the most significant railway manufacturing collaborations in India.
Manufacturing Scale and Production Plan
Under the contract, the RVNL-led joint venture is responsible for producing 120 Vande Bharat Sleeper trainsets. Each trainset will consist of 16 coaches, bringing the total production volume to 1,920 coaches.
This large-scale manufacturing initiative is expected to significantly enhance India’s capability in producing modern long-distance sleeper trains.
Expected Features of the New Sleeper Trains
The upcoming Kinet-built Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are expected to introduce a new standard in overnight rail travel. These trainsets are likely to feature:
- Upgraded and more spacious interiors
- Improved passenger comfort for long journeys
- Modern design enhancements
- Advanced travel amenities tailored for sleeper-class passengers
These improvements aim to align with global standards for high-speed overnight rail travel while enhancing passenger experience across Indian Railways networks.
Early Vande Bharat Sleeper Services Already Operational
It is worth noting that the first operational Vande Bharat Sleeper service, running between Howrah and Kamakhya, has already been introduced earlier this year. This initial version was developed by BEML using technology support from the Integral Coach Factory (ICF).
The upcoming trainsets from the Kinet joint venture are expected to build on this foundation with more advanced features and improved design upgrades.
About RVNL
Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) is a Government of India public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Railways. The company is primarily engaged in the development and execution of railway infrastructure projects, including new line construction, doubling, electrification, and station redevelopment. RVNL also plays a key role in large-scale manufacturing and modernization initiatives aimed at strengthening India’s railway network.
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