PM Modi to Launch India's First Vande Bharat Sleeper Train and Unveil Major Rail Projects in West Bengal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train on January 17. During a two-day visit to West Bengal, he will lay foundation stones for several infrastructure projects and virtually flag off additional train services. These projects aim to enhance connectivity and regional development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off India's inaugural Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, connecting Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya), on his visit to West Bengal starting January 17. Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the upcoming flag-off at Malda Town Railway Station and highlighted this move as a gift to West Bengal, emphasizing the launch of over a dozen new trains.

Vaishnaw detailed the developments involving the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains and several infrastructure projects under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, which includes reconstructing 101 stations in West Bengal. A significant budget of Rs 13,000 crore has been sanctioned for railway enhancements in the state. The New Jalpaiguri Station will undergo major redevelopments with expanded platforms and a new IT hub.

Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for multiple rail and road infrastructure projects worth over Rs 3,250 crore. Additionally, he will launch development projects worth around Rs 830 crore in Hooghly's Singur district. The new sleeper train aims to offer an airline-like experience while enhancing travel efficiency on long-distance routes.

(With inputs from agencies.)