MUMBAI (Metro Rail & Steel): Indian Railways is set to begin the trial runs for the Vande Sadharan trains, a cost-effective alternative to premium trains aimed at offering passengers a comfortable yet affordable journey. According to a report by Times of India, a Vande Sadharan push and pull train recently arrived at Mumbai’s Wadi Bunder yard, with trial runs scheduled for this week. The trial run will test the train’s performance in the challenging mountainous terrain of Igatpuri on the Thal Ghat section of the Mumbai-Nashik line, as reported by Times of India.
Vande Sadharan trains are designed to provide a pocket-friendly alternative to the premium Vande Bharat Express trains currently operational on 30 routes across the country. These new trains, equipped with sleeper-class coaches, will operate at a speed of 130 kmph, promising passengers a higher speed and improved amenities, all at significantly reduced ticket prices compared to Vande Bharat Express trains.
The Vande Sadharan Express consists of 22 non-AC sleeper class and second-class coaches, offering seating for up to 1800 passengers. Sporting a modern orange and grey color scheme, the train presents a contemporary look. Passengers can expect amenities similar to those in Vande Bharat Express, such as bio-vacuum toilets, informative passenger systems, charging points, and enhanced safety features. Additionally, these trains are likely to have larger pantries and washrooms, with coaches featuring CCTV cameras and automatic doors similar to those in Vande Bharat trains.
It’s worth noting that Vande Bharat trains are semi-high-speed trains, reaching speeds of up to 160 kmph, while Vande Sadharan trains are designed to achieve a maximum speed of 130 kmph.
Vande Bharat Express places a strong emphasis on passenger comfort, offering reclining seats, air conditioning, and entertainment systems to enhance the travel experience. In contrast, Vande Sadharan trains prioritize affordability over luxury, offering a budget-friendly and convenient mode of travel with modern comforts, distinguishing them from other sleeper-coach long-distance trains.
This month, Railway Board Secretary Milind Deouskar announced the Indian Railways’ plans to introduce Vande Bharat Sleeper Coach and Vande Bharat Metros, as per a PTI report. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also shared photos of the sleeper version of Vande Bharat Express on October 3, with expectations of launching the train in early 2024. Reports indicate that the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai is manufacturing the coaches for the cost-effective non-AC version of these premium trains.
