The wait of 42 years is almost over. The much-anticipated Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is set to be inaugurated from Katra on June 6 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This train is a part of the long-awaited Udampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, costing over 43,780, marking a transformative moment in the history of Indian Railways.
Equally historic is the debut of the 1,315-metre-long Chenab Rail Bridge, 359 meters above the river, the tallest railway arch engineering miracle, which has become a powerful symbol of perseverance and progress in a region often marred by delays.
This new semi-high-speed service will seamlessly link the holy town of Katra with the picturesque valley of Srinagar, cutting down travel time and bridging a long-standing gap in connectivity. The train promises comfort, speed, and breathtaking views as it winds through tunnels, over bridges, and along the mighty Himalayas. With modern features and an enhanced safety system, it reflects India’s push toward next-generation infrastructure.
Regular Vande Bharat Express services between Katra and Srinagar will commence from June 7, 2025
Key Details about the new train service:
- Route: Initially, the Vande Bharat trains will run between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar. Once redevelopment work at Jammu Tawi railway station is complete, services are expected to extend to Jammu.
- Travel Time: The journey between Katra and Srinagar is expected to take less than 3 hours.
- Frequency: Two pairs of Vande Bharat will operate six days a week (with one day reserved for maintenance for each pair).
- Stoppages: Initially, the trains will only stop at Banihal, with other stoppages to be determined later.
- Features: The Vande Bharat trains for this route are specially engineered to withstand severe winter conditions, like heated windscreens, sophisticated heating mechanisms, and thermally insulated lavatories.
This development is a crucial milestone for connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, fulfilling a long-standing dream and promise to boost tourism and socio-economic integration in the region.
From pilgrims to tourists, and from engineers to everyday commuters, this route is more than a mode of transport- it’s a lifeline reborn.
