India's New Sleeper Train Sells Out in Hours
India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper train between Howrah and Kamakhya sold out within hours of tickets opening, with first-class waitlisted for a week. The 14-hour overnight service shows massive public enthusiasm for the country's expanding modern rail network.
Thousands of travelers scrambled to book seats on India's newest overnight train, selling out the entire first week of service in just hours.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Express began ticket sales at 8 AM on January 20, connecting Howrah and Kamakhya stations. By mid-afternoon, every seat was gone for the inaugural commercial run on January 23, with first-class tickets waitlisted for the next seven days.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the semi-high-speed train from Malda Town railway station in West Bengal on January 17. The 16-coach train represents India's first sleeper version of the popular Vande Bharat series, which previously only offered daytime service.
The route cuts through 13 stations across West Bengal and Assam, completing the journey in about 14 hours. Departure from Howrah happens at 6:20 PM, arriving at Kamakhya by 8:20 AM the next morning.
Travelers can choose from three air-conditioned classes, with fares ranging from Rs 2,435 for third AC to Rs 3,855 for first-class accommodations. The pricing positions the service as an affordable premium option for families and business travelers crossing eastern India.
The Northeast Frontier Railway zone will operate and maintain the new service. Major stops include New Jalpaiguri, Malda Town, and New Bongaigaon, connecting previously underserved communities to India's growing modern rail network.
The Ripple Effect
The instant sellout signals strong public confidence in India's railway modernization efforts. Previous Vande Bharat trains have transformed daytime travel with faster speeds and improved comfort, and this sleeper version extends those benefits to overnight journeys.
The route specifically benefits northeastern states, historically less connected to major rail corridors. Regular modern service between West Bengal and Assam opens new possibilities for tourism, business, and family connections across a region spanning hundreds of miles.
The success also validates government investment in rail infrastructure at a time when many countries struggle with aging transportation systems. India has positioned modern rail as both practical transportation and a source of national pride.
The overwhelming demand proves that when countries invest in quality public infrastructure, people respond with enthusiasm and support.
Based on reporting by Indian Express
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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