The second Vande Bharat Sleeper train has officially launched, providing a new overnight travel option between the holy city of Varanasi and the capital, New Delhi. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath jointly flagged off the service from Varanasi, marking a significant upgrade in rail connectivity.
Modern Amenities for Overnight Journeys
Designed for comfort and efficiency, the fully air-conditioned, 16-coach train boasts a passenger capacity of 823. It will operate six days a week, with specific days off for maintenance (no Friday service from Varanasi and no Saturday service from New Delhi). The train is engineered to reach speeds of up to 160 kmph, with a maximum design speed of 180 kmph, promising faster journeys.
Key features enhancing passenger experience include:
- CCTV cameras and automatic sensor-based doors
- Advanced fire detection systems and security alarms
- Emergency communication facilities for direct contact with crew
- Individual reading lights, charging points, and infotainment screens
- Both Indian and Western-style bio-toilets in all coaches
- Exclusive shower facilities available in First AC coaches
Safety is paramount, with the train equipped with the indigenous Kavach train protection system and modern fire safety protocols. An advanced suspension system aims to minimize vibrations, jerks, and noise, ensuring a smoother ride. Onboard catering will offer a variety of regional food options.
Route, Timings, and Fares
The Vande Bharat Sleeper train connects Varanasi and New Delhi, making intermediate stops at Prayagraj, Kanpur Central, Aligarh, and Ghaziabad. Maintenance activities will be conducted in Varanasi, while water-filling facilities are available at Prayagraj and Kanpur.
Overnight Schedule:
- Varanasi to New Delhi (Train No. 27421): Departs Varanasi at 8:50 pm, arriving in New Delhi at 6:10 am the following day.
- New Delhi to Varanasi (Train No. 27422): Departs New Delhi at 9:40 pm, arriving in Varanasi at 7:10 am the following day.
Ticket Classes and Prices:
The service offers three classes of accommodation:
- First AC: ₹2,880.40 (1 coach, 24 passengers)
- Second AC: ₹2,349.80 (4 coaches, 188 passengers)
- Third AC: ₹1,819.20 (11 coaches, 611 passengers)
Note: GST will be charged separately. Unlike conventional train services, this Vande Bharat Sleeper will not offer Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC), waitlisted, or partially confirmed tickets.
Expanded Connectivity
In addition to the Vande Bharat Sleeper launch, two new MEMU services have also been introduced on the Varanasi-Rajatalab and Banaras-Prayagraj Rambag routes, further enhancing regional rail connectivity and passenger convenience.