Vande Bharat Sleeper trains: BHEL, Titagarh to form joint venture for 35-year maintenance

BHEL and Titagarh Rail Systems Limited have formed a joint venture to manage the maintenance of 80 Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets being built for Indian Railways. The companies signed a Joint Venture Agreement on September 15, 2026, as part of their Rs 24,000 crore contract with Indian Railways. Under the agreement, BHEL and Titagarh will have an equal stake in the new joint venture.

The JV will be tasked with keeping the 80 Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets in working order for 35 years. The Rs 24,000 crore contract also covers the manufacturing and supply of the trainsets, as well as upgrades to manufacturing units and trainset depots. The Vande Bharat sleeper trains are designed for long-distance travel, focusing on passenger comfort and modern technology.