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The first 16-coach Vande Bharat sleeper train was initially scheduled to be launched in October, but now its rollout has been delayed.
The Railway Board has identified several issues in its communication with the Research Design and Standards Organization (RDSO) and zonal general managers.
It has also directed that necessary improvements be made to the current Vande Bharat sleeper trains, as well as design improvements be implemented in all future rakes to prevent similar issues.
What are the issues?
The Railway Board pointed out furnishing issues such as sharp edges and corners around the berth areas, poorly designed window-curtain handles and pigeon-holed pockets between the berth connectors, leading to cleanliness issues.
All Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are required to follow the rules and safety guidelines laid down by RDSO for safe operation at speeds up to 160 km/hr.
The ministry has laid emphasis on compliance with fire safety norms, installation of indigenous anti-collision system Kavach 4.0, reliable communication system between loco pilots, train managers and station masters and proper brake system maintenance.
railway officer Regional divisions directed to train drivers to immediately disengage semi-permanent couplers of a train within 15 minutes during emergencies.
They also want to ensure that all the necessary equipment is available in the equipment sets used by drivers and guards.
vande bharat sleeper train guidelines
Officials have directed that the temperature inside the coach should be kept comfortable for the passengers.
Before the train leaves the station, the staff should use the PA system to inform all persons other than passengers to disembark before the departure of the train.
During the journey, pre-recorded safety messages will be played in three languages: regional language, Hindi and English.
The ministry has also directed the zones to provide skilled and committed staff for maintenance Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset, as well as ensuring that there are adequate spare parts and consumables required for its maintenance
Vande Bharat Sleeper train is a new version of Vande Bharat trains. While regular Vande Bharat trains have chair cars for short journeys, this sleeper variant is designed for long distance journeys with sleeping berths.
These trains aim to provide a more comfortable and premium experience than even the Rajdhani Express. The first ten trainsets are being manufactured by BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited) in collaboration with ICF Chennai (Integral Coach Factory).