The wait is finally over for millions of Indian rail passengers. In a historic move that signals the end of the Rajdhani Express monopoly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged off India’s first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper train today, January 17, 2026.
Dressed in distinctive orange and grey livery, this new engineering marvel is not just another train; officials are calling it a “Hotel on Wheels.” But with higher fares and stricter rules, is it truly worth the upgrade? Let’s dive into the details of this game-changing launch.
A New Lifeline for the Northeast
The inaugural train has been deployed on the strategic route connecting Howrah (West Bengal) to Kamakhya (Guwahati, Assam). This corridor is crucial for bridging the gap between Eastern India and the Northeast.
Travelers will appreciate the significant time savings. The train covers the distance in just 14 hours, slashing the travel time by nearly three hours compared to existing express trains. It is scheduled to depart Howrah at 6:20 PM and arrive in Kamakhya at 8:20 AM the next morning, making it an ideal choice for overnight business travelers.
The ‘Jerk-Free’ Promise: Better Than Rajdhani?
The biggest talking point of this new train is its superior ride quality. Railway officials claim that the Vande Bharat Sleeper offers a completely “jerk-free” experience, thanks to advanced semi-permanent couplers and a modern suspension system.
Unlike older trains where spills are common, this train promises stability even at high speeds. The interiors are designed to rival airlines, featuring cream-colored cabins, soft touch-free lighting, and ergonomic berths that are wider than standard Indian Railway seats.
While the train is capable of hitting 180 kmph, it will operate at a capped speed of 130 kmph on this specific route due to current track limitations. However, even at this speed, the comfort level is expected to be far superior to the shaking usually felt in older coaches.
The Shocking Rule: No RAC, No Waiting!
Perhaps the most controversial change is the new booking policy. The Railways has decided to eliminate the chaos of overcrowded compartments. The Vande Bharat Sleeper comes with a strict “Confirmed Ticket Only” rule.
This means there will be no Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) and no Waitlist facility. If you book a ticket, you get a full berth. There will be no sharing of side-lower berths or passengers standing in the aisles. This move ensures a premium, uncrowded experience but might make getting a last-minute seat extremely difficult.
Luxury Comes at a Price
Comfort does not come cheap. The fare structure for this new service is higher than the Rajdhani Express, positioning it as a premium product.
For a journey from Howrah to Kamakhya, a 3rd AC ticket will cost approximately ₹2,400. Those opting for 2nd AC will have to shell out around ₹3,100. For the ultimate luxury in 1st AC, which includes access to a shower cubicle—a rarity in Indian trains—the price touches ₹3,800.
Conclusion: A New Standard or Just Expensive?
The launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper is undeniably a massive leap forward in technology. With safety features like the Kavach anti-collision system and automatic doors, it sets a new benchmark for passenger safety.
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However, the higher pricing and the rigid “No RAC” rule might alienate budget-conscious travelers. But for those who value sleep quality, hygiene, and speed, the era of the Rajdhani might finally be fading.
Disclaimer: Fares and schedules are subject to change by Indian Railways. Please check the official IRCTC website for the latest booking details.
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