Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: The Indian Railway Ministry has approved the operation of the country’s first 16-coach Vande Bharat Sleeper Train. This is being considered a major step in the modernization of Indian Railways.
However, there are some shortcomings in the train’s decoration and design, which have been directed to be rectified. Safety, firefighting measures, Kavach 4.0, and a strong communication system between the driver and station master will also be addressed. Drivers and guards will receive special training in case of emergency. Additionally, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav has approved a plan to build permanent holding areas at 76 major stations to provide better convenience and safety to passengers. The new holding areas will be ready before the 2026 festive season.
Concerns over decoration and maintenance
The Railway Board has written to the RDSO and the General Managers of all zones expressing concern about deficiencies in train decoration. Sharp edges in the berthing area, window curtain handles, and the gaps between berth connectors, known as “pigeon pockets,” have been cited as posing problems for cleaning and maintenance. The Ministry has directed necessary improvements and design modifications to the racks.
The ministry has directed that all safety standards set by the RDSO be followed for operation at a maximum speed of 160 kilometers per hour. Fire safety, the fitting of Kavach 4.0 technology, and reliable communication between the loco pilot and station master have been mandated. The train will begin operations only after receiving final approval from the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS).
New arrangements in train operations
Drivers and guards will receive special training to open the semi-permanent coupler within 15 minutes in an emergency. Instructions have also been given to maintain proper temperature in the coaches, have trained technical staff available, and make regular announcements regarding passenger safety. According to the ministry, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will offer passengers a new experience of safety and luxury in night travel.
Modern holding areas at 76 stations
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav has approved a plan to develop permanent passenger holding areas at 76 major railway stations across the country. These include major stations such as Mumbai CSMT, Howrah, Sealdah, Nagpur, Pune, Kanpur, Jhansi, Mathura, and Agra Cantonment. This decision was made following the success of the holding area at New Delhi Railway Station.
The ministry had ordered the construction of permanent holding areas after 18 passengers died in a stampede at New Delhi station on February 15, 2023. The new holding areas will be ready before the 2026 festival season and will provide modern facilities to passengers.
