Source: https://www.etnownews.com/infrastructure/indian-railways-vande-metro-vande-sleeper-to-be-heres-what-ashwini-vaishnaw-says-article-112209641
Publisher: ET Now
Indian Railways is set to introduce two more versions of Vande Bharat Express trains soon. The country’s first indigenous-built semi-high-speed train has already revolutionized rail travel. In the coming days, the launch of newer versions will further upgrade rail transport and enhance the passenger experience.
On Thursday, speaking in Lok Sabha, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the latest status of both these trains – Vande Metro and Vande Sleeper. He mentioned that PM Modi had asserted that the nation’s engineers and technicians are talented enough to build the Vande Bharat trains without any foreign assistance.
Vande Metro Latest Update
Vande Metro, a mini version of the Vande Bharat Express, is ready for commissioning. Developed by Kapurthala-based Rail Coach Factory, the train is expected to be rolled out by the second quarter of the financial year 2024-25. Once introduced, the train will transform the intra-city transportation system in the country. “Vande Metro train, designed for a range of 150-200 km, is currently being tested and will enhance passenger services,” Vaishnaw said in Lok Sabha on Thursday.
Initially, the train will be launched with a minimum of 12 Vande Metro coaches. Later, the national transporter will expand it to 16 coaches, as per the demand on the route. The train will have a unique coach configuration in which four coaches will constitute one unit.
Vande Sleeper’s Latest Update
Vande Bharat Express train with sleeper coaches will cover longer distances i.e. more than 1000 km. It will cover an overnight journey. Manufactured by BEML Ltd at its rail unit in Bangalore, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train set will provide more comfort to passengers while travelling. “For long-range travel, a Vande sleeper train is being developed, with the first train already manufactured and currently undergoing testing,” the Minister added.
On the one hand, Vande Metro will replace the existing suburban trains in a phased manner, the Vande Sleeper will replace Rajdhani Express. Both versions were announced in the post-budget 2023-24 press conference by the Railway Minister. Both of these trains are expected to be launched in the ongoing financial year.
