Vande Bharat Sleeper Pet Facility Sparks Debate

The launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train has reignited discussions on pet-friendly travel after a viral video showcased its new pet facility. Social media reactions remain divided, with some calling it a positive step for animal welfare, while others question the comfort of pets inside the enclosure.

The viral clip, uploaded by a travel content producer, gave a preview of what has been dubbed the train’s pet box, a specially crafted space that is meant to carry pets when they are travelling over a long distance overnight. The spread of the video caused a general discussion among pet owners, animal welfare activists, and rail commuters.

Inside the Vande Bharat Sleeper Pet Facility

Indian Railways has designed a metal-enclosed, sealed section inside the train to safely accommodate pets during transit. Passengers must book this facility in advance.

Key features observed include:

• A pet enclosure that is lockable and made of metal.
• A special space without any passenger berths.
• Admission by pre-booking and paperwork.
• Designed to be used in long-range travelling overnight.

Indian Railways has been adhering to stringent rules regarding the transportation of animals, and this establishment is a formal move towards involving pet travel as a part of a high-end experience in trains.

Mixed Reactions from the Public

While many welcomed the move as a long-overdue step, others raised concerns about the comfort and design of the space.

Concerns raised by critics:

• The cage appears to be confining and prison-like.
• Concerns about ventilation and comfort, particularly for large breeds of dogs.
• Fears about long commutes of between 12 and 15 hours.
• absence of bedding or enrichment items for pets.

Animal lovers claimed that the premium trains should provide better and more humane accommodation of pets at the same level of luxury as the luxury given to human passengers.

Supporters of the initiative say:

• Pet travel was a very minimal option in the Indian Railways before.
• A special area is superior to keeping animals under unsafe or informal conditions.
• Standardization leads to transparency, security and responsibility.
• This may be a basis for better future designs.

A Broader Shift Toward Pet-Friendly Travel?

The launch of a pet-friendly high-speed train signals a shift in how public transport views pets. As more Indian families adopt pets, the demand for safe and regulated pet travel continues to grow.

However, experts note that these facilities must evolve based on feedback. The focus should remain on animal welfare rather than only logistical convenience.

Beyond the Vande Bharat Sleeper Pet Facility Features

The Vande Bharat Sleeper is being placed as something significantly superior to the current overnight trains, such as the Rajdhani and Duronto.

Other notable features include:

• Coaches that are fully air-conditioned and sealed gangway.
• Personal reading lights with ergonomic, cushioned sleeping berths.
• Touchless vacuum bio-toilets.
• Coaches have real-time information displays.
• Improved safety measures, such as Kavach anti-collision.
• CCTV monitoring systems and fire detection systems.
• Only confirmed berths to avoid congestion.

These characteristics emphasise the way the train is oriented to the feeling of comfort, safety, and current travelling norms.

What This Means for the Future of Pet Travel in India

When the Vande Bharat Sleeper opens routes on additional routes, the reaction of the population on the pet facility might impact the enhancement of the design in the future. Indian Railways can make improvements like improved ventilation, cushioned floors, or accommodation based on the size.

In the meantime, pet owners are encouraged to adhere to IRCTC and Indian Railways policies, that is, health certificates and the relevant fees for transporting animals.

Conclusion

The debate around the Vande Bharat Sleeper’s pet facility highlights a growing awareness of pet welfare in public infrastructure. While the initiative marks progress, it also underscores the need for thoughtful design that balances safety, comfort, and practicality. Whether seen as a “dog box” or a first step toward pet-inclusive travel, the conversation itself reflects changing attitudes toward pets in India’s transport ecosystem.

As feedback continues to pour in, the future of pet travel by rail may well depend on how authorities respond to the voices of pet parents and animal welfare advocates alike.

References Link : https://zeenews.india.com/india/vande-bharat-sleeper-pet-facility-viral-video-booking-rules-2026-3010014.html