Howrah–Guwahati Sleeper Vande Bharat launch likely on January 17, PM Modi to flag off: Report

Vande Bharat Sleeper Train

• PM Modi to visit West Bengal on Jan 17-18, with rallies in Malda and Howrah
• He'll inaugurate the first Vande Bharat sleeper train from Howrah to Guwahati.
• Sleeper train to enhance overnight travel, offer regional cuisine onboard

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit West Bengal on January 17 and 18, with a major public address planned in Malda, according to a report by News18. During the visit, the Prime Minister is also likely to flag off the first sleeper version of the Vande Bharat Express, which will operate between Howrah in West Bengal and Guwahati in Assam. The move is viewed as a crucial step toward enhancing long-distance rail connectivity between eastern and northeastern India.

Sources indicate that several other Indian Railways projects may also be inaugurated or dedicated to the nation during the visit. The Malda rally on January 17 is expected to be followed by another public meeting in Howrah on January 18.

According to sources, the visit is aimed at shaping the political narrative ahead of upcoming organisational activities in the state. The Prime Minister is expected to highlight major central government initiatives, ongoing infrastructure projects, and the broader development roadmap for West Bengal.

#BreakingNews | PM Modi to inaugurate the first Vande Bharat sleeper train on 17th January from Maldah, West Bengal@payalmehta100 shares more details#VandeBharat#IndianRailways#PMModi | @poonam_burdepic.twitter.com/AjhdRoAOYd

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 7, 2026

The public meetings are anticipated to draw large crowds and are being seen as significant events in the state’s political calendar, with a strong focus on development-led governance and infrastructure expansion.

Howrah–Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper to boost overnight travel across Bengal and Assam

The upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper Train connecting Howrah and Guwahati is set to significantly improve overnight rail travel across key districts of West Bengal and Assam. Areas expected to benefit from the service include Kamrup Metropolitan and Bongaigaon in Assam, and Coochbehar, Jalpaiguri, Maldah, Murshidabad, Purba Bardhaman, Hooghly and Howrah in West Bengal.

Designed for long-distance night journeys, the Vande Bharat Sleeper will run with 16 coaches, comprising 11 AC three-tier coaches, four AC two-tier coaches and one first-class AC coach. The train will have a total passenger capacity of around 823.

Railway officials said the timetable will be structured to ensure the train departs from its origin in the evening and reaches its destination early the following morning, offering passengers a comfortable and time-efficient overnight option.

The service will also highlight regional flavours onboard. Trains originating from Guwahati will serve authentic Assamese cuisine, while those starting from Kolkata will feature traditional Bengali dishes, adding a cultural touch to the travel experience.

Built as a semi-high-speed train with a design speed of up to 180 kmph, the Vande Bharat Sleeper will feature ergonomically designed berths with improved cushioning, automatic doors with vestibules, enhanced suspension for smoother rides, and reduced noise levels. Safety features include KAVACH, CCTV surveillance in all coaches, advanced fire detection and suppression systems, emergency talk-back units, and a driver cab equipped with modern control and safety systems.

The train will also include special arrangements for Divyangjan passengers, improved sanitation through disinfectant technology, and an aerodynamic exterior with automatic passenger doors, aiming to set a new benchmark for comfortable and safe overnight rail travel in eastern and northeastern India.