The Hon’ble Union Minister for Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, marked a historic moment as he inaugurated the carbody structure of India’s pioneering Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset, proudly manufactured by BEML Ltd at its Bangalore-based rail unit.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of senior officials from the Ministry of Railways, ICF, and the Chairman and Managing Director of BEML Ltd, Shri Shantanu Roy.

Briefing to media persons, Shri Vaishnaw says, “It’s a historic moment for Indian Railways and for the country to launch the carbody structure of the much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper version that will provide easy mobility to commuters and offer various comforts in the near future with global standards.”

The carbody structure is crafted with high-grade Austenitic stainless steel, featuring crashworthy elements integrated into the crash buffers and couplers. Complying with stringent safety standards, all materials and aggregates in the trainset adhere to the Fire standard requirements as per EN45545 HL3 grade.

Engineered with meticulous attention to detail, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains designed by BEML prioritize both aesthetic appeal and functionality in their interiors, sleeper berths, and exteriors. From the front nose cone to interior panels, seats and berths, interior lights, couplers, gangways, and beyond, every element is meticulously designed to meet the exacting standards of the sleeper trainset.

BEML has spearheaded the development of critical systems including the electrical, propulsion, bogie, exterior plug doors, brake systems, HVAC, and more, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance throughout the trainset. The entire manufacturing and assembly process is undertaken at BEML, underscoring a commitment to quality and precision.

Shri Shantanu Roy, CMD of BEML Ltd says “We are delighted to be a part of creating this milestone that will facilitate comfort and world-class facilities while minimizing travel time. Our production is operating at full capacity, and the entire manufacturing and assembly process is undertaken at BEML, emphasizing our commitment to quality and precision by specialised team of engineers and staff.”

These Vande Bharat Sleeper trains set a new benchmark in passenger comfort and convenience, boasting world-class facilities and best-in-class interiors. It marks a significant milestone as India embarks on the journey of introducing sleeper variants within the acclaimed Vande Bharat platform.

Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, placed an order with BEML Limited in May 2023 for the design, manufacture, and commissioning of 10 Rakes of 16 cars Vande Bharat Sleeper version trainsets. These trains will undergo necessary modifications to seamlessly transition from chair car variants to sleeper versions, ensuring compliance with crashworthiness and fire safety requirements.

The success of this project hinges on the meticulous design of aesthetically appealing interiors and the selection of competent GFRP panels, demonstrating BEML’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in rail transportation.

Special features:

TECHNICAL FEATURES OF VANDE BHARAT SLEEPER TRAINSETS

Car formation:

• Total cars per Trainset: 16
• Car formation:

* DTC + MC + TC + MC2 + MC + TC + MC + NDTC +
NDTC2 + MC + TC + MC + MC2 + TC + MC2 + DTC2 *

Performance of Train:

Maximum operational speed during service	160 kmph
Maximum operational speed during testing	180 kmph
Minimum deceleration during full service braking followng jerk limit	0.8 m/s2
Maximum deceleration at any speed	1 m/s2
Gauge	Broad Gauge 1676 mm

Passenger capacity: Type of Berth	No of coaches per train	Number of berths
AC 3 Tier Berths	11	611
AC 2 Tier Berths	4	188
First Class AC Berths	1	24
Total	16	823

Salient features:

• Austenitic Stainless steel carbody
• Crash worthy features in carbody for Passenger safety
• Best-in-class interiors with GFRP panels
• Aerodynamic exterior looks
• Modular pantry
• Fire safety as per EN 45545, Hazard Level: 03
• Special berths and toilets for differently abled
• Automatic exterior passenger doors
• Sensor based inter communication doors
• Remotely operated Fire barrier doors at end wall
• Ergonomically designed odour free toilet system
• Toilet for driving crew
• Shower with hot water in 1^st AC car
• Integrated Reading light with USB Charging provision
• Public announcement and visual information system
• Modern passenger amenities
• Spacious luggage room