The launch of the Vande Bharat express with sleeper coaches on the route from Bihar to India's capital, Delhi, is expected soon. The official date of operation, schedule, route, and stops will be announced after receiving final approval from the Railway Board.
If this train starts operating, it could significantly ease travel for residents of Bihar traveling to Delhi before festivals such as Durga Puja, Diwali, and Chhath.
There is a significant passenger congestion on the railway section from Bhagalpur to Delhi during festivals. Due to long waiting lists in regular trains, passengers have to make considerable efforts to secure confirmed tickets. In this regard, the Railway Board has requested information from the East Central Railway regarding traffic levels and train availability on this route. The East Central Railway has provided the Railway Board with the necessary technical and operational reports, and the final decision must now be made at the Board level.
The introduction of the new Vande Bharat with sleeper coaches will provide residents not only of Bhagalpur but also of areas like Banka and Munger with a new option for travel to Delhi. This premium high-speed journey can make long-distance travel more comfortable compared to previous options. Furthermore, it will help reduce the load on existing trains during holidays. However, the final decision on which stations the proposed train will stop at will be made after approval by the Railway Board.
Currently, a Vande Bharat express with seating coaches operates on the Haudhara-Jamalpur route within the East Central Railway zone. The proposed train on the Bhagalpur-Anand Vihar route will be an important start for this region in the sleeper coach format. The launch of Vande Bharat with sleeper coaches is planned on several selected busy and long-distance railway routes across the country, and the Bhagalpur-Delhi section is considered important in this chain.
According to railway information, special attention will be paid to the comfort and safety of passengers in the proposed Vande Bharat with sleeper coaches. The coaches of this air-conditioned sleeper train will be equipped with modern amenities. A modern cabin with an improved safety system and advanced control panel is also provided for the drivers.