Not Europe or Gulf but in India; 'Is it a train or a hotel room?' asks social media; pictures of new 'Vande Bharat sleeper train' going viral

NEW DELHI: It has been heard for quite some time now that the construction of Vande Bharat sleeper trains is in the works. The authorities released the original picture of the train for the first time two days ago. The public is of the opinion that the original surpasses the representative pictures that were released earlier. Social media is debating whether it is a train or a star hotel.

Rs 12 crore to build a train

The cost of constructing a Vande Bharat sleeper train is Rs 12 crore. There will be only fully refrigerated coaches. Vande Bharat Chair cars are used to cover a distance of less than 800 km. The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail (also referred to as Vande Metro), is used to connect major cities within a distance of around 100–250 km. However, Vande Bharat sleeper trains come to the tracks to cover a distance of 800-1200 km.

It will have 11 three-tier AC coaches, four two-tier AC coaches and one first-class coach with a capacity of 823 passengers. It is being manufactured by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) in collaboration with Integral Coach Factory, Chennai. Other features include a KAVACH Automatic Train Protection (ATP) system to avoid collision, an emergency talk back unit to the driver's cabin, a GPS-based LED display, an integrated reading light, a spacious luggage room, charging sockets, and a visual information system.

Sleeper Vande Bharats will also have automated doors. CCTV facility has been provided inside the coaches. At the same time, the berths are wider than regular AC coaches. More convenient steps have also been placed to climb to the upper berth. Though the construction of the first train has been completed, the routes are yet to be decided. The plan is to construct 10 more rakes at a cost of Rs 120 crore soon.