Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains Commissioned For Bengaluru-Mumbai Route

South Western Railway has officially commissioned the new Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets for the Bengaluru-Mumbai route. These advanced trains are designed for long-distance overnight travel, featuring enhanced passenger amenities and superior ride quality. The introduction of the sleeper variant marks a significant expansion of the Vande Bharat platform, which previously focused on chair-car configurations for shorter journeys. Officials expect these trains to drastically reduce travel time between India's technology hub and its financial capital.

A critical trial run for the Vande Bharat Express on the Bengaluru-Mangaluru section is scheduled to begin on August 11, 2026. This route includes the challenging Western Ghats stretch, known for its steep gradients, lush forests, and numerous waterfalls. The trial will specifically test the train's performance and braking systems on the Sakleshpur-Subrahmanya Road ghat section. This route is considered one of the most scenic in India, and the launch of a premium service is expected to boost regional tourism significantly.

The expansion of the Vande Bharat network into the sleeper segment aligns with the national goal of modernizing the Indian Railways fleet. By replacing aging Rajdhani and Duronto rakes with these indigenous high-speed trainsets, the government aims to improve operational efficiency. For the average commuter, this means more reliable schedules and a higher standard of safety during overnight transit. Further trials are expected on other high-density corridors across South India as the manufacturing of sleeper coaches scales up at the Integral Coach Factory.