In a notable advancement, the recently launched Vande Bharat sleeper train hits 180 km/h in trials. Notably, the Indian Railways are closer to rolling out this special Vande Bharat sleeper train to its fleet. The train is currently undergoing trials in Kota, Rajasthan. The train was unveiled by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in September 2024.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Trail Runs
The special Vande Bharat Train is currently in the second phase of trials in the West Central Railway (WCR) zone. The Lucknow-based Research Design and Standards Organisation is overseeing the trials. The first phase trials were successfully conducted in the Jhansi Division of the North Central Railway (NCR).
On Thursday, January 2, 2024, the train reached a top speed of 180 km/h during the speed test conducted by RDSO (Research Design and Standards Organization). The trial of the train also involved assessing several technical parameters like brake performance under various conditions and coupler force during both operating and braking modes.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a video of the train trials, showing the train running at the speed of 180 km/h via his official X handle.
According to the Indian Railways, these recent trials of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train have demonstrated its capability to reach 180 kilometers per hour. These trials will continue through the month’s end before the Vande Bharat sleeper is introduced for passenger travel.
Performance During Initial Trials
In addition to this, last week the RDSO completed the first trials of the train in the Jhansi Division, testing the speed of up to 115 km/h in different configurations, including loaded and empty modes with inflated and deflated settings.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Launch Date and Route
The Vande Bharat Sleeper train will be officially launched following the successful completion of trial runs and the finalization of the route. The Ministry of Railways is yet to decide the route for the Train. The proposed routes under consideration include New Delhi to Pune, New Delhi to Sri Nagar, among others.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Features
The Vande Bharat Sleeper is soon to be introduced for public use. The train is equipped with sophisticated features, including automatic doors, comfortable berths, internet connectivity, and an aeronautical-inspired design.
Here are the features of the Vande Bharat train:
– Kavach Installation: Advanced train collision avoidance system
– Jerk Free Rides: Secure semi-permanent couplers ensuring a smoother journey
– Enhanced Ride Comfort: More comfortable berths and redesigned ladders for upper berth access.
– Fire Safety Compliance: Adheres to EN-45545 HL3 standards
– Shock Absorption: Equipped with anti-climbers for improved safety
– Safety Design: EN standard-complaint carbody with advanced safety features
– Energy Efficiency: Regenerative braking mechanism reducing energy consumption
– Emergency Communication: Direct link between passengers and the train manager or loco pilot
– PRM-Friendly Features: Special Features for Passengers with Restricted Mobility in End-Driving Coaches.
– Automated Systems: Automatic doors with central controls and sealed gangways.
– Monitoring and Control: Integrated coach monitoring system managing air conditioning and lighting.
– Security: Surveillance cameras installed across all carriages for passenger safety
Following successful completion of trials, travellers can look forward to superior long-distance journeys on routes including Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Delhi to Mumbai, Howrah to Chennai, etc.
Kanishka Malhotra is a seasoned journalist with a deep passion for reporting and uncovering the truth. With a specialization in research and investigative Journalism, she has covered wide range of topics related to social issues, travel, lifestyle, technology, Entertainment and much more. She believes to express and share her creativity to the world through words. With relentless pursuit of knowing and uncovering the truth, Kanishka continues to leave a mark in the world of journalism.
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