PM Modi Set to Launch India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train on Guwahati-Kolkata Route

2nd January 2026 at 10:44 AM

1 minute read

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the new Vande Bharat sleeper train service linking Guwahati and Kolkata this month, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday.

The service is expected to commence operations within the next 15 to 20 days, potentially around January 18 or 19. “We have requested the prime minister, and all preparations are in place. The exact date will be confirmed in the coming days,” Vaishnaw stated.

The 16-coach train accommodates 823 passengers and boasts a maximum design speed of 180 kmph, though it will run at 120-130 kmph on this route, passing through key districts in Assam and West Bengal. Both states are gearing up for elections this year.

Describing the launch as a significant achievement for Indian Railways, Vaishnaw emphasized that fares will be considerably more affordable than air travel. Third-AC tickets are priced at approximately Rs 2,300, second-AC at Rs 3,000, and first-AC at Rs 3,600, with meals included. These rates target middle-class travelers, contrasting with typical Guwahati-Kolkata flight costs of Rs 6,000 to Rs 8,000.

ALSO READ : First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train To Run On Guwahati-Kolkata Route

Per-kilometer charges stand at Rs 3.8 for first AC, Rs 3.1 for second AC, and Rs 2.4 for third AC. The train features 11 third-AC coaches (611 berths), four second-AC coaches (188 berths), and one first-AC coach (24 berths).

Passenger amenities include ergonomically designed berths with better cushioning, automatic vestibule doors for easy inter-coach movement, improved suspension for a smoother ride, reduced noise, the Kavach automatic train protection system, emergency communication facilities, and advanced disinfectant technology that eliminates 99.9 percent of germs—similar to that used in Vande Bharat chair-car variants.

Production is accelerating, with eight additional trains expected in the next six months and a total of 12 by year’s end. Faster rollout is planned thereafter as the supply chain strengthens.

Catering will highlight regional flavors: trains departing from Guwahati will offer Assamese dishes, while those from Kolkata will serve Bengali cuisine.