BENGALURU, SEP 1 :  In a significant milestone for Indian rail transport, Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday flagged off India’s inaugural Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset at BEML’s Bengaluru rail complex.

This event marked a historic achievement for BEML, a leading rail and metro manufacturer, which has indigenously designed and produced the trainset.

The occasion also saw the inauguration and laying of the foundation stone for a new 9.2-acre Hangar facility adjacent to BEML’s complex. This facility will be dedicated to the export of standard and broad-gauge rolling stock, enhancing BEML’s global reach and reinforcing India’s position in international rail transport.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by notable figures, including V Somanna, Minister of State for Railways; Satish Kumar, Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board; and Shantanu Roy, Chairman and Managing Director of BEML, along with senior officials from Indian Railways and Integral Coach Factory (ICF).

The Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset, the first of its kind in India, represents a leap forward in rail travel technology. Designed with Austenitic stainless steel and equipped with advanced safety features, including crashworthy buffers and couplers, the trainset meets stringent fire safety standards as per EN45545 HL3 grade.

Vaishnaw lauded the achievement, stating, “Today marks a historic day for Indian Railways. The Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset, with its worldclass amenities and safety features, promises to deliver an exceptional travel experience. This accomplishment reflects the exceptional dedication and skill of BEML’s engineers and leadership.”

Roy highlighted the significance of the project, remarking, “BEML continues to build on its six-decade legacy of excellence in rail manufacturing. This new trainset represents a major advancement in India’s transportation infrastructure and will be remembered as a landmark achievement.”

The Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset is poised to transform long-distance rail travel in India. Its state-of-the-art features include integrated reading lights with USB charging ports, public announcement systems, visual information displays, modular pantries, and special facilities for differently-abled passengers.

Additionally, the 1st AC car offers showers with hot water, elevating passenger comfort to international standards.

BEML’s meticulous design and engineering ensure that every element, from the aerodynamic exterior to the ergonomic interiors, reflects a commitment to both aesthetics and functionality. The trainset integrates advanced systems such as electrical components, propulsion, bogies, and HVAC, ensuring seamless performance and reliability.

The introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset signifies a new era for Indian railways, combining innovation with excellence to set new benchmarks in comfort, safety, and efficiency.(UNI)