Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to launch the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Express service connecting Guwahati and Kolkata on January 17. The Northeast Frontier Railway official mentioned that the inauguration might be done virtually from Malda in West Bengal. This initiative aims to enhance overnight rail travel and improve connectivity between Northeast India and the Eastern region.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has confirmed Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Assam on January 17 for a two-day program. During the visit, the Prime Minister will introduce new train services linking Dibrugarh to Lucknow and Guwahati to Rohtak via Delhi. Additionally, he will witness the traditional Bodo dance ‘Bagurumba’ to showcase Assam’s cultural richness on a national platform.
Furthermore, on January 18, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit Kaziranga to lay the foundation stone for the elevated corridor project. This project, a flagship initiative of the Assam government, aims to address the conservation versus connectivity conflict. With the recent approval from the Union Cabinet, the elevated corridor project is set to move into the implementation phase swiftly, marking a significant step towards sustainable development in the state.
The new Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will operate with a 16-coach rake, offering a total passenger capacity of 823. It includes various coach types to cater to different passenger segments, emphasizing comfort and convenience. The train is designed with a strong focus on passenger needs, featuring cushioned berths, advanced suspension systems, noise-reduction technology, and modern amenities like automatic doors and a Passenger Information System.
Safety is a top priority for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, equipped with advanced safety features such as the ‘Kavach’ automatic train protection system and emergency passenger talk-back units. The train’s design reflects the latest advancements in indigenous rail engineering, with aerodynamic exteriors and modern interiors. The introduction of this service is expected to enhance connectivity between Assam and West Bengal, benefiting several districts in both states and promoting regional mobility, trade, tourism, and socio-economic development.
