PM Modi Flags Off India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper, Unveils Projects worth ₹3,250 Cr

Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple rail and road infrastructure projects worth over ₹3,250 crore at Malda in West Bengal, marking a major boost to connectivity and development in the state and the wider Northeastern region.

Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister said the initiatives reflected a renewed momentum in Bengal’s development journey. He highlighted that the newly launched rail services and infrastructure facilities would not only make travel easier for citizens but also promote trade, commerce and employment, particularly for the youth.

A key highlight of the event was the introduction of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, a significant step in the modernisation of Indian Railways. Flagged off between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya), the fully air-conditioned sleeper train is designed to offer an airline-like travel experience at affordable fares. The service is expected to reduce travel time on the route by around 2.5 hours, providing a major boost to tourism and religious travel.

Describing the train as a symbol of a “developed India’s vision”, the Prime Minister said it connects the land of Maa Kali with the land of Maa Kamakhya and would gradually expand across the country. He underlined that the train is entirely Made in India and reflects the growing global recognition of India’s railway transformation.

At Malda Railway Station, flagged off the first Vande Bharat sleeper train, which will connect Howrah to Guwahati. Also had a pleasant interaction with children who were at the station and on the train. pic.twitter.com/dH2EtkIFtq

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 17, 2026

Meanwhile,Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma lauding the initiative said, "Today is a day of pride for Assam as the inauguration of Vande Bharat Sleeper Express, which is a first of its kind, will commence operations between Guwahati and Kolkata. On behalf of the people of Assam, I thank the Prime Minister for his ‘Act East’ policy as he is committed to put Northeast on a priority list. I also express gratitude to the Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. This train features all modern amenities, including special safety measures to prevent accidents.”

He further added that, “Tomorrow, the Prime Minister will arrive and inaugurate two more trains for Assam.”

The Prime Minister also announced the launch of four new Amrit Bharat Express trains for Bengal: New Jalpaiguri–Nagercoil, New Jalpaiguri–Tiruchirappalli, Alipurduar–SMVT Bengaluru and Alipurduar–Mumbai (Panvel). These services will significantly strengthen connectivity, especially for North Bengal, with South and Western India, benefiting pilgrims, students, migrant workers and traders.
In addition, foundation stones were laid for major railway projects, including a new Balurghat–Hili rail line, modern freight and locomotive maintenance facilities at New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri, and upgraded Vande Bharat maintenance infrastructure. Electrification of key rail sections and the four-laning of the Dhupguri–Falakata stretch of NH-31D were also dedicated to the nation.

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