Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has approved a new Vande Bharat sleeper train connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai, marking a significant step in enhancing long-distance rail connectivity.
The announcement comes nearly three months after the successful rollout of the Kamakhya–Howrah Vande Bharat sleeper service, which saw strong passenger demand and impressive occupancy rates. The new train will operate between KSR Bengaluru Railway Station and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.
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In a letter dated April 5, 2026, addressed to BJP MP PC Mohan, the Railway Minister confirmed the approval, stating that the project is aimed at improving public convenience and travel efficiency. The move is part of the government’s broader plan to introduce 12 Vande Bharat sleeper trains by December 2026.
The Bengaluru-Mumbai route is one of India’s busiest travel corridors, connecting two major economic hubs. The introduction of a sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat train is expected to significantly reduce travel time while offering enhanced comfort, modern amenities, and a premium travel experience.
Since their launch in 2019, Vande Bharat trains have revolutionized rail travel in India. With over 9.1 crore passengers transported across more than one lakh trips, the service continues to witness strong growth.
The success of the Kamakhya–Howrah sleeper train, which recorded over 100% occupancy in its initial months, highlights the rising demand for high-quality overnight travel options.
With this new addition, Indian Railways aims to further modernize its network and provide faster, more efficient travel between key cities.
