India’s railway modernization journey has received another major boost with the announcement of the second Vande Bharat Sleeper Train. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has officially confirmed that the upcoming sleeper version of the train will operate between Bengaluru and Mumbai.
This announcement has put an end to widespread speculation about the second route and marks another step forward in providing faster, more comfortable long-distance rail travel in India.
Official Announcement by Railway Minister
The confirmation came through a letter written by Ashwini Vaishnaw to Bengaluru Central MP P.C. Mohan on April 5. In the letter, the Railway Minister stated that the Vande Bharat Sleeper service has been sanctioned between:
- Krantivira Sangolli Rayanna Bengaluru Station (KSR Bengaluru)
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)
He also mentioned that work is currently underway to finalize key operational details such as the exact route, travel time, and service frequency. The train is expected to start operations soon.
Expected Travel Time: 17–18 Hours
According to railway officials, including Bengaluru Division DRM Ashutosh Kumar Singh, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two major cities.
- Estimated journey duration: 17 to 18 hours
This would make it one of the fastest overnight rail options between Bengaluru and Mumbai, offering both speed and comfort.
ALSO SEE:
Route Not Final Yet: Two Options Under Consideration
The Railway Ministry is still evaluating the final route for the train. Two major routes are being considered:
1. Kalaburagi Route
- Distance: लगभग 1,136 km
- Fully electrified
- Currently used by trains like the Udyan Express
- Limited double-track sections
This route connects fewer regions within Karnataka and passes significantly through Andhra Pradesh.
2. Hubballi Route
- Distance: लगभग 1,215 km
- Fully electrified
- Covers multiple districts within Karnataka
Although this route is longer in distance, it serves more regions of Karnataka. Public representatives and citizens have shown strong demand for this route despite it taking slightly more time.
Growing Demand for Sleeper Vande Bharat
The introduction of sleeper variants of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train comes in response to increasing demand for comfortable long-distance travel.
Unlike the existing chair car Vande Bharat trains, the sleeper version will offer:
- Berths for overnight journeys
- Modern interiors and improved comfort
- Faster travel with reduced journey time
- Enhanced safety and onboard technology
This makes it ideal for routes like Bengaluru–Mumbai, where passengers prefer overnight travel.
First Vande Bharat Sleeper Already Operational
India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train has already been introduced on the route between:
- Howrah
- Guwahati
This train serves passengers in eastern and northeastern India and has received strong interest from travelers.
Earlier, there were speculations that the second sleeper train might run on routes like Delhi–Patna or Delhi–Howrah. However, the government has now officially confirmed the Bengaluru–Mumbai corridor as the next priority.
Why This Route Matters
The Bengaluru–Mumbai corridor is one of India’s busiest travel routes, connecting:
- A major IT hub (Bengaluru)
- The financial capital of India (Mumbai)
Currently, travel between these cities takes longer via conventional trains. The new sleeper Vande Bharat is expected to:
- Improve connectivity
- Save travel time
- Offer premium travel experience
- Reduce dependency on flights
What’s Next?
Before the launch, Indian Railways will finalize:
- Exact route alignment (Hubballi or Kalaburagi)
- Timetable and frequency
- Fare structure
- Onboard amenities
Trial runs and safety checks are also expected before the commercial rollout.
Conclusion
The announcement of the second Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Bengaluru and Mumbai is a significant step in transforming long-distance rail travel in India.
With faster speeds, modern facilities, and improved comfort, this train is set to become a game-changer for passengers traveling between these two major cities.
As India continues to expand its high-speed rail network, the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are expected to play a crucial role in redefining the future of railway travel.