Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) have officially launched a production line for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains at their Uttarpara facility in Kolkata, West Bengal. This milestone follows a major contract awarded by Indian Railways to the TRSL-BHEL consortium to design and manufacture 80 Vande Bharat Sleeper train sets.
Valued at approximately ₹24,000 crore, the project also includes long-term maintenance for 35 years. Aligned with the government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat missions, these sleeper trains will feature a fully indigenous design, offering superior passenger comfort, advanced safety features, and modern amenities for long-distance, semi-high-speed travel across India.
The new production line at the Uttarpara plant showcases the latest in robotic manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies, making it the only facility in India capable of producing coaches in both aluminium and stainless steel. Currently, the plant has the capacity to manufacture 300 coaches annually, with expansion plans underway to increase output to 850 coaches to meet rising demand.
Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Titagarh Rail Systems, highlighted the significance of the project, calling it a symbol of effective collaboration between the public and private sectors and a major step toward a more connected, self-reliant India. The first prototype of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train is expected to roll out next year, promising a new era of efficient and comfortable intercity travel.
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is a leading state-owned engineering and manufacturing company in India, specializing in power generation, transmission, and industrial equipment. Founded in 1964, BHEL has played a pivotal role in developing India’s infrastructure, particularly in the energy sector, with capabilities spanning thermal, hydro, nuclear, and renewable power.
Titagarh Rail Systems is a prominent provider of comprehensive mobility solutions with manufacturing facilities in India and Italy. The company specializes in passenger and freight rolling stock, including semi-high-speed trains, metros, passenger coaches, propulsion systems, and a range of specialized wagons. With a focus on innovation and excellence, Titagarh is dedicated to shaping the future of transportation and contributing to India’s “Make in India” initiative.
