Vande Bharat Sleeper Train to Link Guwahati-Kolkata; PM Modi to Launch Soon

• India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper train will run on the Guwahati-Kolkata route, with PM Modi set to launch it soon.
• Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw introduced the train, expected to roll out within 17-18 days.
• The train features 16 coaches (11x 3-tier, 4x 2-tier, 1x AC), a 180 kmph design speed, and Kavach safety system.
• It will offer an overnight journey, serving Assamese cuisine from Guwahati and Bengali cuisine from Kolkata.
• Tentative fares range from Rs 2,300 (3AC) to Rs 3,600 (1AC); Ministry aims for 200 sleeper trains in coming years.

Why It Matters: First Vande Bharat Sleeper train to connect Guwahati-Kolkata, enhancing regional rail connectivity.