Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Completes Final High-Speed Safety Trial at 180 kmph
Indian Railways has moved a step closer to launching its first indigenously designed Vande Bharat sleeper train. The rail ministry confirmed that the train successfully completed its final high-speed safety trial under the supervision of the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS).
The trial marks a key milestone in India’s push for self-reliant rail technology under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission.
High-Speed Trial Conducted on Kota–Nagda Section
The final safety trial took place on the Kota–Nagda rail section, where the Vande Bharat sleeper train achieved a top speed of 180 kmph. Railway officials said the test focused on evaluating the train’s performance under real high-speed conditions.
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Although the train has missed multiple launch deadlines in the past, officials described the latest trial as a major technical success. No fresh launch date has been announced so far.
In November, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had stated that the sleeper version of the Vande Bharat train was expected to be launched by December 2025.
Water-Glass Test Demonstrates Ride Stability
Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a video of the safety trial on social media platform X on December 30. The video showed a water-glass stability test conducted inside the train during high-speed movement.
Vande Bharat Sleeper tested today by Commissioner Railway Safety. It ran at 180 kmph between Kota Nagda section. And our own water test demonstrated the technological features of this new generation train. pic.twitter.com/w0tE0Jcp2h
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) December 30, 2025
In the demonstration, glasses filled with water remained steady without spilling, even at 180 kmph. The test highlighted the train’s advanced suspension and stability systems.
Vaishnaw said the trial showcased the technological strength of the new-generation Vande Bharat sleeper train.
CRS Declares Trial Successful After Technical Checks
Railway officials said the CRS carried out detailed technical evaluations during the trial. These included checks on ride comfort, vibration levels, oscillation behaviour, braking performance, and emergency braking systems.
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The inspection team also examined safety systems and other critical operating parameters. According to the ministry, the train performed satisfactorily across all tests.
After reviewing the results, the CRS declared the high-speed trial successful.
Designed for Long-Distance Sleeper Travel
The Vande Bharat sleeper train used in the trial has 16 coaches and is built specifically for long-distance journeys. Officials said the train focuses on comfort, safety, and modern passenger needs.
Key features include sleeper berths, advanced suspension systems, automatic doors, modern toilets, and fire detection systems. The train also has CCTV-based surveillance, digital passenger information displays, and energy-efficient technologies.
Indian Railways aims to offer a world-class overnight travel experience through these features.
Boost to Indigenous Rail Manufacturing
Railway officials said the successful trial clears a major technical hurdle for introducing Vande Bharat sleeper services across the country. The project reflects India’s growing capability in designing and manufacturing high-speed trains domestically.
The ministry added that the achievement reinforces its focus on innovation, passenger safety, and modernisation of rail infrastructure.
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