The much-awaited sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat trains, which promises a premium travel experience for long-distance passengers, is likely to face delays before its debut. Ongoing discussions around major design changes and adjustments to train length are the main reasons for this setback, according to an English-language newspaper citing insider sources. These negotiations are part of a massive supply and maintenance contract worth approximately Rs 60,000 crore. The delays in finalizing the prototype can be attributed to these continuing talks, pushing back the expected launch of the sleeper variant, much to the disappointment of eager travelers.
Railways can request different train lengths
One of the main points of discussion revolves around Indian Railways' preference for 24-coach Vande Bharat sleeper trains. According to a senior official involved in the project, the flexibility in coach configurations is part of the contract terms, allowing Indian Railways to request different train lengths, including 12-, 16-, or 24-coach configurations, without additional cost. This flexibility is designed to meet various operational needs, but it has also contributed to the delay in prototype development.
The official commented, “The terms of the contract allow for changes in the coach configuration of every rake. Railways can ask for 12-, 16-, or 24-coach trains without incurring extra charges.” While this adaptability is seen as a long-term benefit, the current back-and-forth negotiations have slowed down the progress of delivering the first prototype.
Contract for Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains Was Awarded in Mid-2023
The contract for manufacturing 200 sleeper variants of the Vande Bharat trains was awarded in mid-2023 to Kinet Railway Solutions, a consortium that includes Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) and Titagarh Rail Systems (TRS). The plan initially aimed to roll out a prototype within a year of signing the contract. However, progress has been slower than anticipated, with full-scale work on the sleeper variant yet to take off. This delay further pushes back the launch of the premium sleeper trains that were meant to cater to long-haul passengers in a comfortable and modern setting.
First Batch of Sleeper Trains Expected by Year-End
In parallel, a separate agreement has been signed between Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) and the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai to supply 10 sleeper-variant trains. Earlier this month, prototype coaches from this batch were displayed, and the first consignment is expected to be delivered by the end of the year. Although this development is a step forward, it represents only a fraction of the overall requirement for sleeper trains.
Kinet Railway Solutions, an Indo-Russian joint venture, has also secured an order for 120 sleeper-variant trains, costing Rs 120 crore for each 16-coach rake. Under the same pricing model, the BHEL-TRS consortium is responsible for delivering an additional 80 sleeper trains. Despite these orders, the overall pace of the project has lagged behind expectations.
A spokesperson from Kinet Railway Solutions has confirmed that discussions with Indian Railways are ongoing, particularly concerning modifications to the scope of the contract. The spokesperson noted, “We are in constant dialogue with Indian Railways to finalize adjustments in the project’s scope. Once an agreement is reached, a new deadline will be established. Kinet is fully committed to delivering on this contract in collaboration with Indian Railways.”
The sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat trains, which was highly anticipated for its luxurious and modern amenities, is currently facing delays due to ongoing design changes and negotiations over contract terms. While initial prototypes have been displayed, and limited deliveries are expected soon, passengers eager to experience these premium sleeper trains will need to exercise patience.
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