Vande Bharat Sleeper Debuts Soon: Guwahati-Kolkata Route, PM Modi to Inaugurate

• Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper train will launch within 17-18 days on the Guwahati to Kolkata route.
• The train features a design speed of 180 kmph, 16 coaches (11 3AC, 4 2AC, 1 1AC), KAVACH safety system, and an emergency talk-back system.
• Estimated ticket prices are ₹2,300 for 3AC, ₹3,000 for 2AC, and ₹3,600 for 1AC, with local cuisine served.
• The launch, ahead of Assembly elections in Assam and West Bengal, highlights indigenous technology and advanced passenger amenities.
• Indian Railways plans to introduce 200 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains, with 8 more in six months and 12 by year-end, following successful high-speed trials.

Why It Matters: India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to revolutionize overnight travel on the Guwahati-Kolkata route.