Kumar indicated that after testing of the prototype, the project could eventually scale up to around 120 train sets.

Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Advances, Prototype Testing Expected Within Next Year

The Vande Bharat Sleeper train project is moving towards its prototype stage, with Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar stating that testing is expected within the next year.

The development is being carried out through a joint venture led by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited, which is handling key parts of the project. Officials said the sleeper version is one of the major additions planned under the expanding Vande Bharat train ecosystem.

Kumar indicated that after testing of the prototype, the project could eventually scale up to around 120 train sets. However, no final timeline has been set for full rollout across the network.

While earlier reports from RVNL Chairman and Managing Director Saleem Ahmad suggested a possible June 2026 timeline for the prototype, officials now note that the schedule may face delays despite ongoing development work.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier flagged off the first Vande Bharat Sleeper rake operating between Kamakhya and Howrah on January 17.

Officials also clarified that although there is strong expectation around additional sleeper services, the Railway Ministry has not announced any official expansion plan yet.