Overnight high-speed service to connect Howrah and Guwahati, cutting travel time significantly
January 17, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday cleared and flagged off India’s first-ever Vande Bharat sleeper train, marking a major step in the evolution of long-distance rail travel. The overnight, high-speed service will connect Howrah near Kolkata with Kamakhya Junction in Guwahati, strengthening rail links between West Bengal and Assam. The inaugural service was flagged off from Malda Town in West Bengal, while the return Guwahati–Howrah train was launched virtually, highlighting the strategic importance of the corridor.
During his visit to Malda, the Prime Minister interacted with students and loco pilots, acknowledging the people who will operate and maintain the new-generation train. The engagement added a human element to the historic launch, which signals Indian Railways’ push toward faster, safer and more comfortable overnight journeys, particularly in eastern India.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the fully air-conditioned Vande Bharat sleeper train is designed to offer an airline-like experience on rails while remaining affordable. By reducing travel time on the Howrah–Guwahati route by around 2.5 hours, the service is expected to ease overnight travel and boost tourism and pilgrimage to Assam and the wider Northeast region.