Vande Bharat sleeper train
Credit: X/@IndianTechGuide
The Indian Railways on Monday announced that the first fully air conditioned and electric multiple unit (EMU) Vande Bharat sleeper train between Assam's Guwahati and Howrah in West Bengal will be virtually flagged-off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 17.
The 27575/27576 Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, belongs to the Northeast Frontier Railway Zone that runs between Howrah (Kolkata) and Kamakhya (Guwahati). It will cover a total distance of over 1,000 kilometres.
This initiative is expected to significantly boost connectivity in the north Bengal region in a cost-effective way.
Here are key details about the first Vande Bharat sleeper train.
How much will it cost?
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The fare structure is based on the distance travelled and the type of class accommodation opted. Passengers will be charged Rs 2.4 per km for 3-tier AC, Rs 3.1 per km for 2-tier AC and Rs 3.8 per km for 1st AC.
For a long-distance journey covering over 1,000 kilometeres, the ticket fare of the third AC will be Rs 2,3000 and the second AC will cost Rs 3,000, while the first AC fare to be around Rs 3,600, said Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The minister also mentioned that a GST of 5 per cent will apply separately charged separately, while the total train fare often includes food.
What route will the train take?
Representational image of a Vande Bharat train.
Credit: PTI Photo
This new service line includes key halts at Bandel, Katwa, New Farakka, Malda Town, New Jalpaiguri, New Coochbehar, and New Bongaigaon.
How much time will be saved?
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The EMU train runs at a semi-high-speed, designed to hit speeds up to 180 kmph. The train is intended for a long distance overnight travel, while also reducing approximately three hours compared to present express trains.
Key Features
The fully air conditioned train provides 16 coaches which can accommodate 823 passengers.
The train provides robust security including the KAVACH anti-collision system, CCTV surveillance, and an emergency talk-back unit to contact the locomotive pilot.
Further, it offers aircraft-style bio-vacuum toilets, ergonomically designed cushioned births, making the travel experience comfortable for passengers. It also has redesigned ladders for easier access to upper berths.
It also features noise reduction technology, superior suspension for a jerk-free ride, and individual reading lights/USB charging points and has automatic sliding doors between coaches.
Reservation & Quotas
As part of a fresh revision, the new express train will not permit RAC or waitlisted tickets. The tickets can be digitally confirmed through the official IRCTC website, with bookings open according to the usual standard advance reservation period.
Quotas will be provided for women, senior citizens, person with disability, and duty pass holders.