The first 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train was initially set to launch in October, but the rollout has now been delayed.
The Railway Board, in its communication with the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and zonal general managers, has identified several issues.
It has also directed that necessary corrections be made to the current Vande Bharat Sleeper train while also implementing design improvements in all future rakes to prevent similar issues.
What are the issues?
The Railway Board pointed to furnishing issues such as sharp edges and corners around berth areas, poorly designed window‑curtain handles, and pigeon pockets between berth connectors, inviting cleaning issues.
All Vande Bharat sleeper trains are required to follow the rules and safety guidelines set by the RDSO for safe operations at speeds up to 160 km/h.
The ministry has emphasised compliance with fire‑safety norms, installation of the indigenous anti‑collision system Kavach 4.0, reliable communication systems between loco‑pilots, train‑managers and station‑masters, and proper brake system maintenance.
Railway authorities instructed regional divisions to train drivers to separate the train’s semi-permanent couplers quickly within 15 minutes during emergencies.
They also want to make sure all necessary tools are available in the equipment sets used by drivers and guards.
Vande Bharat sleeper train guidelines
The authorities have instructed that the temperature inside the coaches should be kept comfortable for passengers.
Before the train leaves a station, the staff should use the PA system to inform all persons other than passengers to disembark from the train before its departure.
During the journey, pre-recorded safety messages will be played in three languages: The regional language, Hindi, and English.
The ministry has also instructed zones to provide skilled and committed personnel for the maintenance of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset, as well as to make sure that there are enough spare parts and consumables needed for its maintenance
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is a new version of the Vande Bharat trains. While regular Vande Bharat trains have chair cars for short trips, this sleeper variant is designed for long-distance travel with sleeping berths.
These trains aim to offer a more comfortable and premium experience than even the Rajdhani Express. The first ten trainsets are being built by BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited) in collaboration with ICF Chennai (Integral Coach Factory).
