Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: Indian Railways is preparing to expand its overnight Vande Bharat network, with a proposed sleeper service that could connect Delhi and Varanasi. The reported route is expected to pass through Kanpur and Prayagraj, offering another overnight travel option on this busy rail corridor.
However, the Railway Board has not yet officially notified the service. If introduced, the Delhi-Varanasi train would be the second Vande Bharat Sleeper service planned by Indian Railways, after the sleeper service associated with the Howrah-Kamakhya route.
Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat Sleeper Expected Timings
The proposed train is expected to operate overnight, allowing passengers to travel during the night and reach their destination early the next morning.
According to the reported schedule, the service could leave Varanasi Cantt at 9:20 pm. It is expected to reach Prayagraj at around 10:45 pm, followed by Kanpur Central at approximately 12:35 am, before arriving at New Delhi around 5 am.
On the return trip, the train could depart from New Delhi at 9:20 pm and reach Varanasi at about 5 am the next day.
These timings are not final. Indian Railways has yet to issue the official timetable, and the schedule could be modified according to operational requirements.
16-Coach Train With Around 823 Seats
The proposed second Vande Bharat Sleeper train is expected to consist of 16 coaches and accommodate around 823 passengers.
The reported coach formation includes 11 AC 3-tier coaches, four AC 2-tier coaches and one First AC coach. The final composition will be confirmed only after Indian Railways officially announces the service.
The sleeper version is expected to retain several features associated with the Vande Bharat platform. These may include upgraded interiors, automatic doors, passenger information systems, improved acceleration and enhanced safety arrangements.
However, the exact onboard facilities for the Delhi-Varanasi service have not yet been officially confirmed.
Expected Speed of Up to 160 kmph
The proposed sleeper train could operate at speeds between 130 kmph and 160 kmph. Its actual operating speed will depend on several factors, including track conditions, signalling, route capacity and the required clearances.
The final journey time will also depend on the number of stops and the timetable approved by the Railway Board.
Before regular services begin, the train would need to undergo trial runs and other operational checks. For an overnight sleeper service, ride quality, passenger comfort and safety would also be important factors during testing.
Launch Date, Fare and Stops Yet to Be Confirmed
There is currently no officially confirmed commercial launch date for the proposed Delhi-Varanasi Vande Bharat Sleeper.
Indian Railways has also not formally announced the final fare, confirmed stoppages, booking opening date or operational timetable. Passengers will therefore have to wait for an official Railway Board notification for the confirmed details.