Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s pioneering Vande Bharat Sleeper Express today, a game-changer for rail passengers traveling from Kolkata to Guwahati. Nicknamed the ‘Kali-Kamakhya Express,’ this luxury train unites the devout heartlands of Goddess Kali and Maa Kamakhya, promising swift and serene journeys.
The event drew thousands, with Modi emphasizing the train’s role in fostering unity and development. ‘From the banks of the Ganges to the hills of Assam, this train weaves our nation’s diverse tapestry closer,’ he said. The 566-km route, previously a grueling 12-hour ordeal, now shrinks to under eight hours with speeds touching 160 kmph.
Packed with premium features like modular interiors, automatic doors, and real-time GPS tracking, the train caters to modern travelers. It offers AC 1st class, AC 2-tier, and AC 3-tier accommodations, ensuring restful sleep en route. This launch is part of a broader rollout, with 50 more sleeper variants planned by 2025.
Economically, it spells growth for local businesses, from Darjeeling tea vendors to Assam’s silk weavers. Pilgrims, tourists, and professionals alike stand to benefit, as enhanced connectivity spurs investment. Critics who once doubted indigenous high-speed rail now witness a triumph of ‘Make in India,’ propelling India onto the global rail stage.