Modi flags off first VB sleeper; 'pride of Assam', say passengers, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• The first Vande Bharat Sleeper train was flagged off by PM Modi from Malda, West Bengal, connecting Howrah to Guwahati.
• The train was inaugurated at Kamakhya Junction railway station in Guwahati, Assam.
• The Howrah-Guwahati route covers 972 km and will be completed in 14 hours.
• A third AC journey from Howrah to Guwahati will cost Rs 2,299.

Detailed Insights:

• The Vande Bharat Sleeper aims to provide a modern, safe, and comfortable travel experience, with features like clean toilets, CCTV cameras, and advanced safety systems.
• The train is manufactured by BEML and includes features like hot water in IAC, GPS-based LED display, sensor-based inter-communication doors, and modular pantry service.
• The train has an acceleration of 0.4-0.8 seconds and can quickly reach 100 kmph due to having 50% motor coaches.
• The Vande Bharat Sleeper is seen as a significant upgrade in train travel, similar to the launch of the Rajdhani Express in 1969, setting a new standard for the Railways.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Vande Bharat Sleeper: A semi-high-speed sleeper train designed to provide a modern and comfortable travel experience.
• BEML: A Ministry of Defence public sector undertaking that manufactures various products, including rail coaches.
• Rajdhani Express: A series of fast passenger trains connecting New Delhi with other major cities in India.