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PM Modi flags off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train between Howrah and Guwahati

#Infrastructure News#Infrastructure#India
Last Updated : 20th Jan, 2026
Synopsis

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has launched India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper train, marking a significant milestone in the modernisation of the country's rail network. The fully air-conditioned sleeper service was flagged off from Malda Town railway station in West Bengal and will operate between Howrah in West Bengal and Kamakhya (Guwahati) in Assam, aiming to reduce travel time on the busy eastern corridor by around 2 hours compared with existing services. The train is designed to offer an airline-like experience with modern onboard amenities at economical fares and is part of a broader package of rail and road infrastructure projects worth over INR 3,250 crore unveiled by the prime minister during his visit. The service is expected to boost connectivity, support tourism and improve long-distance travel options for passengers in the region.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has officially flagged off India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper train, a fully air-conditioned long-distance service connecting Howrah in West Bengal with Kamakhya (Guwahati) in Assam. The launch took place at Malda Town railway station in West Bengal, where the prime minister also inaugurated a series of rail and road infrastructure projects totalling more than INR 3,250 crore.


Developed to meet growing demand for faster and more comfortable long-distance travel, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train is designed to offer passengers an experience akin to airline travel while remaining economical. On the Howrah-Guwahati route, the service is expected to cut journey times by around 2 hours, enhancing connectivity between eastern India and the Northeast and supporting tourism, commerce and inter-state travel.

The train features modern sleeper coaches with upgraded amenities to improve comfort on overnight journeys. Officials highlighted that the service will make long-distance rail travel more convenient and safer, with ergonomic berths, advanced safety systems and facilities suited for extended travel.

The launch is part of a broader push to strengthen India's railway infrastructure, improve mobility and expand high-speed connectivity across strategic corridors. It coincides with the dedication and foundation laying of multiple projects, including new rail lines, upgraded maintenance facilities and electrification works aimed at enhancing passenger and freight movement in the region.

Officials said that the Vande Bharat Sleeper service will offer passengers a significant improvement over existing options on the route, combining speed, comfort and modern onboard features, while contributing to the country's broader rail modernisation strategy.

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