Guwahati, Jan 20 (NationPress) The inaugural commercial journey of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train connecting Kamakhya (Guwahati) and Howrah (Kolkata) has garnered an astounding response from travelers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the nation's first Vande Bharat Sleeper Express Train on January 17, marking a significant milestone along with the launch of the Amrit Bharat Express trains. Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), reported that ticket reservations were completely filled within hours of opening through the Passenger Reservation System (PRS) and various online platforms.

The swift sell-out vividly reflects passengers’ eagerness to experience the speed, comfort, and modern facilities of the Vande Bharat Sleeper. The train is slated to begin its commercial journey from Kamakhya on January 22 and from Howrah on January 23, according to Sharma.

Ticket booking for this service began on January 19, and within less than 24 hours, all classes sold out, showcasing the immense public enthusiasm for this premium semi-high-speed service. This remarkable response highlights the growing preference among travelers for rail options that offer speed, safety, and comfort.

The Kamakhya-Howrah Vande Bharat Sleeper is set to significantly improve connectivity between Northeast and Eastern India, providing modern amenities, faster travel times, and a world-class overnight experience.

The fully booked status within hours stands as a strong testament to the trust and excitement of passengers towards modern train services being introduced by Northeast Frontier Railway, marking a new chapter in premium rail connectivity for the region.

The CPRO previously mentioned that the new-generation Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will operate with a 16-coach rake, accommodating a total of 823 passengers. The composition consists of 11 AC three-tier coaches, four AC two-tier coaches, and one First Class AC coach, catering to various passenger segments.

Designed with a strong focus on passenger needs, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express features ergonomically designed cushioned berths, advanced suspension systems for enhanced comfort, noise-reduction technologies, automatic doors with vestibules, and a modern Passenger Information System.

Moreover, special provisions for 'Divyangjan' (differently abled) passengers, contemporary toilets, and advanced disinfection technology will further improve hygiene, accessibility, and onboard comfort.

Safety is a key feature of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express. The CPRO indicated that the train will incorporate the 'Kavach' automatic train protection system, emergency passenger talk-back units, and a state-of-the-art driver's cab with advanced controls. Its aerodynamic exterior and refined interiors showcase the latest advancements in indigenous rail engineering and design.

This new service is anticipated to greatly enhance connectivity between Assam and West Bengal. Beneficiary districts include Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon in Assam, as well as Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Malda, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly, and Howrah in West Bengal.

This railway service will promote regional mobility while enhancing trade, tourism, and socio-economic development. The launch of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Express reaffirms Indian Railways' commitment to innovation, passenger-centric services, and the vision of a modern, future-ready railway network for the nation, according to the CPRO.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), headquartered at Maligaon near Guwahati, operates across the Northeastern states as well as in seven districts of West Bengal and five districts of north Bihar.