No Waiting List, No RAC: All You Need to Know About Howrah–Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, Including Fare and Route

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train running between Guwahati and Kolkata on 17 January, aiming to enhance connectivity in the northern Bengal region. The introduction of this service will give a major boost to travel and transport in the region, linking Guwahati and Kamakhya with Kolkata.

Key Details of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express

The government has unveiled the ticket prices, reservation quotas, and operational details of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express. This monthly service will operate on the Guwahati–Howrah route. One of the most significant features of this train is its booking system: passengers will not require RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation) or a waiting list. From the first day of advance booking, all berths will be available for confirmed reservation.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had announced earlier this month that the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Express would operate between Guwahati, Assam, and Howrah, West Bengal. The train has successfully completed all trials, inspections, and certifications.

Inauguration Date

The Prime Minister will flag off the train on 17 January, marking the start of this semi-high-speed service on the Guwahati–Howrah route.

Fare Details

Ticket prices for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express will vary by class—1AC, 2AC, and 3AC—with GST applicable as per current rules. A minimum distance of 400 km will be considered for fare calculation, which will be rounded off according to Indian Railways regulations.

Confirmed Tickets Only

Only confirmed tickets will be issued for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, meaning there will be no RAC or waitlist tickets. All berths will be available for booking from the first day of the advance reservation period.

Reservation Quotas

Quotas will be available for women, senior citizens, differently-abled passengers (PWD), and duty-pass holders as per government instructions. No other reservation quotas will apply.

Features of Vande Bharat Sleeper Express

• Semi-high-speed train with a design speed of up to 180 km/h
• Ergonomically designed berths with improved cushioning
• Automatic doors and vestibules for smooth passenger movement
• Advanced suspension and noise reduction technology for a comfortable journey
• KAVACH sanitization system to maintain high hygiene standards
• Enhanced control and safety systems in the driver’s cabin
• Aerodynamic exterior design with automatic external passenger doors
• Special arrangements for differently-abled passengers
• Emergency talk-back units for communication between passengers and train staff in urgent situations
• CCTV cameras in all coaches
• Fire detection and suppression systems with aerosol-based technology in electrical cabins and toilets

This milestone marks a significant step forward in connecting Assam with West Bengal through modern, safe, and comfortable rail travel.