The wait for the first Vande Bharat sleeper trains is likely to be prolonged. India’s most advanced train featuring enhanced passenger amenities and safety features, which was expected to be operated for the general public by January 2025, now may be delayed because of designing-related issues. Integral Coach Factory Chennai last month unveiled the fully airconditioned sleeper coaches, with improved safety features and best-in-class interiors, of its flagship Vande Bharat train. According to the media reports, the demand for toilets and a pantry car in the train emerged as a sticking point for the Indian Railways and Russian rolling stock manufacturer Transmashholding (TMH). The fresh challenge could potentially delay the ambitious sleeper edition of Vande Bharat train sets.
