Marking a new era in Indian Railways, PM Narendra Modi virtually flagged off the first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper train from Kolkata’s Howrah station to Guwahati. This spiritual corridor links the fierce abode of Maa Kali with the mystical Maa Kamakhya temple, blending devotion with cutting-edge engineering.
Modi’s address resonated with national pride: ‘This train embodies our resolve to link every corner of Bharat with speed and comfort.’ The service addresses long-standing demands for faster connectivity, reducing travel time by nearly 50% and offering world-class amenities including panoramic windows, Wi-Fi, and gourmet meals.
Built by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, the train features indigenously developed crash-worthy shells and advanced braking systems. It operates six days a week, with fares starting at affordable rates to ensure inclusivity. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma hailed it as a ‘boon for the Northeast,’ predicting a tourism boom.
Beyond spirituality, the route invigorates commerce, facilitating the movement of goods like coal, tea, and petroleum. As India eyes Vande Bharat exports, this sleeper variant proves the nation’s rail prowess. The journey ahead looks bright, with passengers eagerly awaiting their divine rail odyssey.