The inaugural tickets for Indian Railways’ new Vande Bharat sleeper train on the Kamakhya-Howrah route were snapped up within hours, signalling strong passenger demand for the upgraded service.
Key Details of the New Vande Bharat Sleeper Train
- Route: Kamakhya (Assam) to Howrah (West Bengal), covering 1000 km.
- Travel Time: 16 hours 30 minutes.
- Frequency: Three times a week.
- Notable Feature: Reduces journey time by about an hour.
Route and Weekly Schedule
The train connects Kamakhya and Howrah Junction via Guwahati, New Jalpaiguri, Malda Town, and Kolkata.
From Kamakhya: Departs 7:30 PM on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Arrives at Howrah at 12:00 PM the next day.
From Howrah: Departs 2:15 PM on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Arrives at Kamakhya at 6:45 AM the following day.
Fare Structure and Coach Composition
The base fare is set at Rs 1,000 for sleeper class and Rs 1,500 for AC 3-tier. The 16-coach rake includes 11 AC 3-tier coaches, four sleeper coaches, and a pantry car.
Modern Amenities and Features
Passengers can expect modern amenities like automatic doors, a passenger information system, CCTV cameras, and bio-vacuum toilets. The coaches are designed with improved suspension and noise reduction for a more comfortable journey.
Booking Information
Tickets can be booked via the IRCTC website or mobile app, as well as at railway reservation counters.
This launch is a key part of Indian Railways’ fleet modernization drive, aiming to provide a world-class travel experience. The service is poised to significantly benefit students, professionals, and tourists commuting between Northeast India and West Bengal.
