The introduction of these trains is expected to provide passengers with an alternative for overnight journeys, combining comfortable travel with the prospect of reaching their destinations in less time. Here is a look at the proposed routes, travel times, stoppages and fares of the two services.
Mumbai–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: Journey in 15 Hours 45 Minutes
The Mumbai–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper train has completed its trial at a speed of 160 kilometres per hour. The train is expected to cover approximately 1,000 kilometres between Mumbai and Bengaluru in 15 hours and 45 minutes.
The service will run from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai to Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT) in Bengaluru. Along the route, the train will stop at Kalyan, Pune, Solapur, Kalaburagi, Raichur, Guntakal and Anantapur.
The service is expected to make travel between major cities in Maharashtra and Karnataka easier. It will offer a faster and more convenient travel option for working professionals, businesspeople and tourists travelling between the two states.
However, the exact timings of the Mumbai–Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper train have not yet been finalised. They will be confirmed only after an official announcement by the Railways.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Between Delhi and Varanasi
The proposed Vande Bharat Sleeper service between Varanasi and New Delhi will operate via Prayagraj and Kanpur. According to the proposed schedule, the train departing from Varanasi for New Delhi will leave at 8:50 pm and reach Prayagraj at 10:35 pm.
After a five-minute halt, it will depart from Prayagraj at 10:40 pm and reach Kanpur Central at 12:40 am. The train is expected to arrive in New Delhi at 5:55 am the following morning.
On the return journey, the train will depart from Delhi at 9:40 pm and reach Prayagraj at 4:45 am the next day. Following a five-minute halt, it will depart for Varanasi and is expected to reach its destination at 6:45 am.
The Railways is expected to release official details regarding the regular operation and timetable of the Varanasi–New Delhi service soon.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Fares: How Much Will Passengers Pay?
The fare for Vande Bharat Sleeper trains is calculated based on the distance travelled. Passengers travelling in Third AC (3AC) will have to pay Rs 2.40 per kilometre. At this rate, a journey of 1,000 kilometres would cost Rs 2,400, excluding Goods and Services Tax (GST). The final amount payable by passengers may be slightly higher after applicable taxes are added.
The fares for Vande Bharat Sleeper trains have been set within a range of Rs 2.40 to Rs 3.80 per passenger per kilometre, depending on the distance travelled.
These trains will not offer the Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC) facility. However, passengers on the waiting list may get a seat if a confirmed ticket is cancelled.
According to the Railways, the fares will be determined by incorporating all applicable charges. The official fares for the two services have not yet been announced.
With the proposed launch of the Mumbai–Bengaluru and Varanasi–New Delhi services, passengers will have additional overnight travel options. The final operating timings and officially announced fares will be important details for travellers planning their journeys on these routes.
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