Duronto Express Set for Sleeper Class Upgrade
The Hazrat Nizamuddin-Ernakulam Duronto Express has always been a lifeline for those traveling between the national capital and Kerala. From August 2, 2025, it’s about to get even better. Three extra Sleeper Class coaches will be added to this busy route, after months of pressure from regular travelers who’ve struggled to get confirmed tickets, especially in the high season.
Kerala BJP president Rajeev Chandrasekhar broke the news, stating that the Centre responded to repeated requests by passengers. This move means more families, workers, and students will be able to snag sleeper berths, making the journey less stressful. When the new coaches roll in, the train will stretch to 22 Linke-Hofmann-Busch (LHB) coaches. These upgraded Duronto Express coaches aren’t just more numerous—they’re quieter, smoother, and safer than older models.
Why the Change Matters for Passengers
The Hazrat Nizamuddin-Ernakulam Duronto isn’t just any train. It covers over 2,600 km, slicing right through the country in just two days. Because it skips many stops, tickets get snapped up fast, and the Sleeper Class always sees the longest waitlists. By making this expansion permanent, the railways are promising more than just extra seats. They’re offering more comfort, thanks to LHB technology—fewer jerks, better temperature control, and a safer design. For families with kids or elderly travelers, that’s a huge relief.
Soon after Chandrasekhar’s announcement, Southern Railway pointed to a wider plan to upgrade Duronto services everywhere. Over the past few years, they’ve been rolling out new carriages, expanding tracks, and trying to fix those capacity issues that plague high-traffic routes. From students heading to Delhi for exams to migrant workers coming home for Onam, these upgrades have a real impact on how people plan their journeys.
If you’ve ever rushed to book when reservations open 120 days out, only to end up on a waitlist, you know why this is being celebrated. These three new coaches could well decide whether you reach your destination with a confirmed ticket or not.
The change lines up with the Centre’s big push for modernization across Indian Railways. You’ll see more of these stories—long trains getting longer, comfort levels rising, and old complaints addressed one iron carriage at a time. For the Hazrat Nizamuddin-Ernakulam Duronto Express, August 2025 is shaping up to be a turning point.
