Indo-Russia Vande Bharat sleeper coaches to be on track by 2026
The first prototypes of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train coaches, developed under the India–Russia joint venture, in partnership with Russia’s TMH, are expected to be ready by the end of 2026.
Kinet Railway Solutions Ltd (Kinet) is executing the Vande Bharat sleeper trains project in full accordance with its agreement with Indian Railways. The project marks a significant milestone in India’s ambitious railway modernisation plan and highlights the growing industrial collaboration between India and Russia.
The Vande Bharat sleeper train project aims to develop advanced, comfortable, and efficient long-distance trains featuring sleeper coaches. Kinet began operational activities at its manufacturing facility in Latur, Maharashtra, in September 2024. The factory is now in the final stages of upgrading to meet the high standards required for producing these modern coaches.
According to the TMC Press Service to The Pioneer, “The first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train prototype is planned to be completed in 2026.”
The Latur plant includes 11 specialised workshops and 8.6 kilometres of internal railway track, supporting seamless production processes. It also features a large warehouse capable of storing components for up to 11 coaches simultaneously, allowing for efficient inventory management and smooth assembly lines.
The project faced some delays during the design phase when Indian Railways requested specific changes to the coaches, especially regarding the layout of toilets and the luggage area. These design modifications were necessary to ensure passenger comfort and meet operational needs based on Indian conditions and feedback.
In addition to upgrading the production facilities, the contract includes constructing and equipping three service depots for rolling stock. Construction of the depot in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, has already begun. We have also opened an Engineering Centre in Hyderabad, Telangana, and a Training Centre for our production staff at the Latur plant. Additionally, we are preparing a training program for Kinet employees at TMH facilities in Russia,” TMH told The Pioneer.
The construction and equipping of the three service depots will be critical for the long-term maintenance and smooth operation of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains once deployed on Indian rail routes. The first depot in Jodhpur is already under construction.
Apart from the Latur manufacturing facility, Kinet has set up an Engineering Centre in Hyderabad to focus on research, design improvements, and quality assurance. To support workforce development, Kinet has opened a dedicated Training Centre at Latur, aimed at training staff on the latest manufacturing technologies and processes.
Further strengthening the collaboration, Kinet is preparing a specialised training program for employees at TMH’s advanced facilities in Russia. TMH, the Russian rail equipment manufacturer and Kinet’s technology partner, plays a strategic role in transferring expertise, technology, and best practices to India.
TMH views India as a vital partner due to the country’s rapid expansion of urban infrastructure, including metro and suburban rail networks. In line with this, TMH is working on an industrial cluster initiative supported by the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade. This initiative focuses on establishing local production of complex rail components, electronic modules, semiconductors, and other high-tech systems in India.
These efforts are expected not only to boost India’s domestic manufacturing capabilities but also to create export opportunities for both India and Russia in the global rail industry.
The India-Russia joint venture for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains highlights the growing cooperation between the two countries in the railway sector. With prototype coaches expected by 2026, this collaboration promises to contribute significantly to India’s vision of a modern, self-reliant railway system while fostering international partnerships.
