Vande Bharat Sleeper misses several deadlines, now expected to be launched next month: Why the delay

The Indian Railways' Vande Bharat sleeper train, the premium overnight express designed for comfortable travel, has missed several launch deadlines since its announcement. The train, which had its launch announced for December last year, September 23 and October 15 this year, is now expected to be out next month. Apparently, the latest delay was caused by a 'minor retrofitting,' the Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said recently. Here are the details.

Changes in seats and bogies
After testing the first rake of the sleeper train, changes to seats and bogies were suggested, and these are now being fixed, the minister said. The department is apparently treating it as a significant change to ensure passengers can ride comfortably. According to various reports, some rakes have also been sent back to rectify interior defects in the curtain handles and berths. Bharat Earth Movers Ltd (BEML) is manufacturing 10 Vande Bharat sleeper trains.

They said they have a prototype with them for retrofitting after trials and testing under the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Commissioner of Railway Safety supervision. The Railway Ministry has also sanctioned a 16-car Vande Bharat sleeper, with certain modifications, including AC duct relocation and crashworthiness enhancements. 

Apparently, the emergency alarm button and its indication signboard were also found hidden behind the upper berth connector console and appeared inaccessible to passengers for emergency use. This needs to be relocated to accessible locations for future productions. The ministry also flagged issues with furnishing and workmanship. 
(With inputs from PTI)