MALDA: Marking a significant milestone in Indian railways, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday flagged off the nation's first Vande Bharat Sleeper train during a visit to West Bengal. The inaugural journey, which links Howrah and Guwahati via the Kamakhya station, sets a new precedent for long-distance train travel in the country. Esteemed for its fully air-conditioned facilities, the train is designed to provide passengers with an airline-like experience at economical fares, as highlighted by the Press Information Bureau.

During the event, Modi took the opportunity to engage with students who were traveling on the sleeper train for the first time, sharing his own experiences and even signing autographs. This personal touch aimed to build a connection with the younger generation, emphasizing the importance of modern infrastructure in their lives.

In addition to launching the sleeper service, the Prime Minister laid the foundation for several key railway and road projects in Malda, cumulatively worth over Rs 3,250 crore. These initiatives include a new rail line to connect Balurghat and Hili, next-generation freight maintenance facilities at New Jalpaiguri, and upgrades to the Siliguri Loco Shed—vital for enhancing the efficiency of the rail network in West Bengal.

Modi's itinerary does not stop at Malda; he is also scheduled to dedicate the electrification of vital rail lines, flag off four new Amrit Bharat Express trains, and visit Assam where he will prominently participate in local cultural events. The electrification projects aim to enable faster, cleaner, and more energy-efficient train operations that resonate well with India’s green energy goals.

The introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train not only reflects India’s commitment to modernizing its railway system but also provides a promising boost to regional connectivity and economic growth, significantly transforming the travel landscape across the country.