India’s ambitious plans to modernize its rail network with 200 Vande Bharat sleeper trains have hit a snag. The delivery of these high-speed, state-of-the-art trains has been delayed due to ongoing negotiations about design modifications and train length. While the prototype from BEML and Integral Coach Factory (ICF) is expected to be unveiled later this year, full-scale production remains on hold.
The delays stem from disagreements about the ideal train configuration. Indian Railways is pushing for 24-coach configurations to maximize capacity, while the manufacturers are proposing 12-, 16-, or 24-coach options. These adjustments, along with other design discussions, are slowing down the process.
The contract for these advanced sleeper trains, valued at nearly Rs 60,000 crore, was awarded in mid-2023 to Kinet Railway Solutions and a consortium of Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL) and Titagarh Rail Systems (TRS). Kinet Railway Solutions, an Indo-Russian joint venture, is tasked with delivering 120 sleeper trains at Rs 120 crore per 16-coach rake, while the BHEL-TRS consortium will provide 80 trains at the same rate.
The Vande Bharat sleeper trains are designed to exceed the capabilities of the Rajdhani Express, offering faster speeds (up to 160 kmph), enhanced comfort, and improved safety features. As self-propelled train sets, they boast improved acceleration and deceleration, further contributing to efficiency.
While initial expectations were for prototypes to be ready within a year, production has yet to begin. Separately, BEML and ICF are contracted to supply 10 trains, with some prototype coaches already showcased earlier this month.
The delay in the Vande Bharat sleeper train rollout is a setback for Indian Railways’ modernization plans. The introduction of these advanced trains was anticipated to significantly enhance passenger travel experiences and improve overall rail efficiency. The ongoing negotiations between the suppliers and Indian Railways are crucial to resolving the design issues and expediting the project, ultimately bringing these much-needed trains to the tracks.
