Vande Bharat Sleeper Launch

AC Sleeper Vande Bharat Express: Lucknow to Mumbai Route Announced
In a historic move, Indian Railways is all set to launch the country’s first AC Sleeper Vande Bharat Express, connecting Lucknow to Mumbai—two of India’s most vital urban centers. This modern marvel not only marks a step forward in Indian Railways modernization but also aims to address high passenger demand on this bustling route.
🛤️ Finalized Route: Faster and More Connected
After evaluating several options, Indian Railways has selected a strategic route via Bareilly Junction, one of Uttar Pradesh’s key railway hubs. The high-speed train will travel through Hardoi, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Rampur, Moradabad, Ghaziabad, Hazrat Nizamuddin (Delhi), Agra, and finally Mumbai.
This carefully optimized path ensures improved connectivity for both urban and regional centers, reducing congestion and enhancing travel experience.
🚅 First-Ever AC Sleeper Train: A Game Changer
Unlike existing Vande Bharat trains that operate only during the day, this new variant will feature sleeper coaches, enabling passengers to travel overnight in comfort. With First AC, AC 2-Tier, and AC 3-Tier sleeper classes, plus two SLR (Seating-cum-Luggage Rake) coaches, the train can accommodate around 1,200 passengers per trip.
This development addresses the acute shortage of long-distance seats, especially on existing trains like the Bareilly–Lokmanya Tilak Express and Ramnagar–Bandra Express.
📅 Frequency & Launch Schedule
The AC Sleeper Vande Bharat Express will operate four times a week, with the final schedule expected to be released in June. Operations are slated to begin by July, reinforcing Indian Railways’ vision of expanding high-speed train India services to new corridors.
🌟 Modern Amenities and Comfort
Travelers can expect a state-of-the-art experience:
- Ergonomic seats and sleeping berths
- Onboard catering
- Clean, fully air-conditioned coaches
- Improved safety features
The train’s high-speed capabilities rival even prestigious trains like the Rajdhani and Shatabdi Express, but with the added convenience of overnight travel.
🚉 Strengthening UP’s Vande Bharat Legacy
Uttar Pradesh has been a central player in the Vande Bharat Express story since the debut of the Varanasi–New Delhi route. With this new Vande Bharat new route, the state continues to lead in adopting cutting-edge rail technologies and better connectivity solutions.
💼 Economic and Regional Impact
This new service will not only offer faster and more comfortable travel but also boost tourism, regional trade, and employment along the route. It symbolizes how infrastructure investments in high-speed trains in India are catalysts for broader economic growth.
📈 Conclusion: A Leap Toward Rail Modernization
The launch of the AC Sleeper Vande Bharat Express is a pivotal part of the ongoing Indian Railways modernization strategy. As more Vande Bharat routes, including sleeper and semi-high-speed variants, are rolled out, India is positioning itself as a leader in efficient, modern railway travel.
Stay tuned as Indian Railways continues to connect the nation—faster, smarter, and more comfortably than ever before.