Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL), in collaboration with Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), has inaugurated the production line for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains at its advanced manufacturing unit in Uttarpara, Kolkata, West Bengal.

The unveiling ceremony was led by senior executives from both companies, including Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of TRSL, and Bani Varma, Director at BHEL. The development marks a significant milestone in India’s rail modernisation efforts.

TRSL was awarded a Rs 240 billion contract by Indian Railways for the design, manufacturing, and long-term maintenance (35 years) of 80 Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains. This third-generation model in the Vande Bharat series has been specifically developed for long-distance routes and features sleeper configurations.

Each train set will consist of 16 coaches, including 11 AC 3-tier, 4 AC 2-tier, and 1 AC First Class coach, with a total seating capacity of 823 passengers.

According to company officials, the production line exemplifies the synergy between public and private sector collaboration in advancing India’s self-reliance goals. The initiative supports the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat by delivering future-ready mobility solutions through indigenous capabilities.

With manufacturing now underway at the Uttarpara facility, the prototype of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is expected to be completed within the next calendar year.