PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train in Malda, West Bengal. He flagged off the modern and advanced train, marking an important step in improving long-distance rail travel in the country. This sleeper version of the Vande Bharat train will run between Howrah and Guwahati and is specially designed to provide more comfort and convenience to passengers during overnight and long journeys.

During the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Modi met the train’s driver and spoke to him about the train’s features and operation. He also interacted warmly with children who were present on the train, making the event more memorable. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that the Vande Bharat train will make travel easier and more comfortable for common people. He recalled that earlier people often wished India had trains like those in foreign countries, and said that today this dream is becoming a reality. Prime Minister emphasized that the Vande Bharat sleeper train is a proud example of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. He said the train has been built with the hard work, skill, and dedication of Indian engineers and workers. Highlighting the cultural connection, he said this train links the land of Maa Kali in West Bengal with the land of Maa Kamakhya in Assam, strengthening ties between different regions of the country.

With the introduction of this new train, the travel time between Howrah and Guwahati will be reduced by around two and a half hours. At present, the journey on this route takes nearly 18 hours by train. The new Vande Bharat sleeper train will help passengers reach their destination faster while enjoying better facilities and a more comfortable journey. Apart from the train inauguration, Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated several rail and road projects in West Bengal worth more than ₹3,250 crore. These projects aim to improve infrastructure and boost development in the state. He also virtually flagged off four Amrit Bharat Express trains. These trains will connect important cities of North Bengal, including New Jalpaiguri and Alipurduar, with other parts of India. Overall, these new projects are expected to strengthen transportation, support economic growth, and bring better connectivity to the people of the region.