JAMMU, Oct 7: As the Indian Railways progresses towards connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country by January 2025, it is preparing to launch the third variant of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train on the Delhi-Srinagar route. This development is part of a broader initiative to facilitate longer, overnight journeys between key destinations. According to official sources, the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are designed to cover greater distances with enhanced comfort for overnight travelers.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw unveiled the prototype of the sleeper train in September 2024, highlighting its production by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML). Once operational, the train is expected to significantly reduce travel time between New Delhi and Srinagar. Currently, the journey takes around 20 hours, but with the new rail connection, it will be reduced to just 13 hours.
The New Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will traverse a distance of 800 kilometers, utilizing the USBIHL (Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla) project, which is nearing completion. The train is scheduled to depart from New Delhi at 7:00 PM, reaching Srinagar by 8:00 AM the following morning. Along its route, it will make stops at several major stations, including Ambala Cantt Junction, Ludhiana Junction, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Sangaldan, and Banihal, providing convenient access for passengers across these regions.
The new sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat will offer multiple accommodation options to cater to different passenger needs. These include AC 3 Tier (3A), AC 2 Tier (2A), and AC First Class (1A), ensuring a range of choices for comfort and affordability. Tentative ticket prices for the journey are expected to be around ₹2,000 for AC 3 Tier, ₹2,500 for AC 2 Tier, and ₹3,000 for AC First Class, providing competitive options for travelers.