PM Flags Off India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train on Howrah–Guwahati Route

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday virtually flagged off India’s first Vande Bharat Express with sleeper coaches, connecting Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya). The fully air-conditioned semi-high-speed train, launched from Malda Town, will reduce travel time by about 2.5 hours, completing the journey in nearly 14 hours.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma termed it a historic moment for the region, highlighting modern facilities such as CCTV cameras and noting that Assam has received the country’s first Vande Bharat sleeper service. The Prime Minister’s Office said the new train aims to provide airline-like comfort at affordable fares and is expected to boost tourism and religious travel.

Prime Minister Modi is on a two-day visit to Assam, during which he will witness a large Bodo folk dance performance in Guwahati and later lay the foundation stone for the Kaziranga elevated corridor, besides flagging off two Amrit Bharat Express trains.