Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd. and Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd. inaugurated a top-notch production line for Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains at Uttarpara, Kolkata. This strategic move aligns with the Make in India initiative and marks a key milestone in Indian Railways’ journey toward faster, long-distance semi-high-speed travel with indigenous technology.
Introduction:
Marking a pivotal move, Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), in partnership with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), officially launched the production line for Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains at TRSL’s advanced facility in Uttarpara, West Bengal. The ceremony was attended by senior leadership from both organizations, symbolizing a new chapter in Indian train manufacturing.
Boost to Make in India & Aatmanirbhar Bharat:
Awarded by Indian Railways, the Rs. 24,000 crore contract covers the design, production, and 35-year maintenance of 80 Vande Bharat Sleeper train sets. This project stands as one of the most substantial under the government’s flagship Make in India and self-reliance missions in the railway sector.
Image Credit: Titagarh
Sleeper Variant Innovation:
Unlike the chair-car version, the sleeper Vande Bharat is built for long-distance semi-high-speed journeys, offering advanced safety, comfort, and smart onboard features. It’s fully indigenous, setting a new benchmark in intercity rail travel through modern design and energy efficiency.
Cutting-edge Production Facility:
The Uttarpara unit is equipped with Industry 4.0 capabilities and robotic systems. As the only Indian facility capable of manufacturing both stainless steel and aluminium coaches under one roof, it currently has an output capacity of 300 coaches annually, soon expanding to 850.
Looking Ahead:
With the production line now operational, the first prototype is expected to be ready by the next calendar year, representing a giant leap in India’s long-distance rail transportation capabilities.
Image Credit (representational): Titagarh
Insight:
Shri Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Titagarh Rail Systems, said, “This is a proud moment for the Titagarh Rail Systems- BHEL teams. The Vande Bharat Sleeper project is a shining example of what can be achieved when the public and private sectors come together with a shared vision, and strive towards a truly Aatmanirbhar Bharat. This production line reflects our commitment to building future-ready mobility solutions and contributing meaningfully to the vision of a more connected and self-reliant India.”
Conclusion:
The inauguration of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train production line marks a transformative moment for Indian Railways. It not only strengthens India’s manufacturing ecosystem but also signals the beginning of a new era in indigenous rail innovation, aimed at delivering high-speed, high-comfort travel experiences across the nation.
Source: Titagarh – Press Release | Featured Image Credit (representational): Southern Railway
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