Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Delays Explained: Railway Ministry Provides Official Update on Progress and Challenges

The highly anticipated Vande Bharat sleeper train project by Indian Railways has experienced significant delays due to multiple challenges, including essential design modifications and supply chain disruptions. The Railway Ministry has now provided a status update on the situation.

According to a letter from the Railway Board to the Director General of the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and General Managers across all railway zones, "There are issues related to furnishing and workmanship at many places in respect of sharp edges and corners at berthing area, window curtain handles, pigeon pockets between berth connectors inviting cleaning issues, etc."

The letter, reviewed by news agency PTI, further indicates that the Ministry has instructed all zones to adhere to RDSO's stipulated conditions for operations up to a maximum speed of 160 kmph.

Railway officials explained that the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) forwards recommendations to the Railway Ministry for operational approval after RDSO secures final clearance from CCRS for any newly-designed train. "The CCRS during trial conveys its observations to the RDSO for compliance. In the case of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, the RDSO sent its updated compliance on September 1, 2025," the officials stated.

Key Features of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train include enhanced amenities such as spacious berths designed for passenger comfort, onboard Wi-Fi connectivity, and convenient charging points. Safety features will be comprehensive, with the Ministry mandating fire safety measures, Kavach 4.0 implementation, reliable communication systems between loco pilots, train managers and station masters, plus proper maintenance of all brake systems.

The trains are engineered for higher speeds, which will substantially reduce travel times compared to conventional trains. The Ministry has specified that "Suitable setting of temperature inside coaches shall be maintained to ensure comfortable conditions to passengers, considering ambient conditions and frequent opening & closing of doors."

Additionally, "Regular announcements shall be made through the PA system informing all persons other than passengers to disembark from the train before its departure. Also, pre-recorded Passenger safety announcements in three languages (Regional, Hindi & English) should be made during the run to sensitize passengers about personal safety norms to be observed during travel."