In a major step for rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday flagged off the extended 20-coach Vande Bharat Express connecting Jammu (Jammu Tawi) directly to Srinagar.
The launch ceremony at Jammu Tawi Railway Station was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh, Members of Parliament, MLAs and senior railway officials. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
This marks the first direct premium train service between the two capitals of the Union Territory, offering faster, safer and more reliable travel—especially during harsh winters when roads are often disrupted.
Extension of Katra–Srinagar Service
The new train is an extension of the earlier Vande Bharat service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated that section in June 2025 after completion of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL).
- Inaugural run: 30 April 2026
- Public services start: 2 May 2026
The train has now been expanded from 8 coaches to 20 coaches to meet high passenger demand, as earlier services were often fully booked.
Faster Journey Through the Himalayas
The direct journey between Jammu and Srinagar will take around 4 hours 50 minutes to under 5 hours, compared to 8–12 hours by road.
Route Highlights
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- Runs through the challenging Himalayan terrain
- Crosses the iconic Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge
- Passes multiple tunnels and scenic mountain landscapes
- Key stops: Udhampur, Katra, Banihal, Anantnag
The service provides a reliable all-weather alternative to roads often affected by landslides and snowfall.
Big Boost to Tourism and Economy
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the train would significantly improve connectivity and help tourism grow across Jammu and Kashmir.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw added that the expansion meets long-standing public demand and that future plans include increasing capacity and strengthening infrastructure on the route.
Modern Features of Vande Bharat
Passengers can expect a high-quality travel experience with:
- Comfortable seating in Chair Car and Executive Class
- Smooth and fast ride with minimal vibration
- Onboard catering and e-catering options
- Modern safety systems and advanced design
- Large windows offering scenic views of mountains and rivers
Booking and Travel Information
Tickets for regular services starting 2 May 2026 will be available via:
- IRCTC website and mobile app
- Railway reservation counters
- Authorised agents
Timings, fares and full schedules are expected to be officially released soon.
USBRL: A Landmark Engineering Project
The Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) is one of India’s most ambitious railway projects.
- Built across difficult mountainous terrain
- Includes over 100 km of tunnels
- Features major bridges like Chenab and Anji Khad
- Completed in phases, with final link operational in 2025
The project has finally delivered a long-awaited rail connection to the Kashmir Valley.
Public Reaction
Passengers and locals have warmly welcomed the new service.
Many said it will make travel easier for:
- Business and trade
- Medical visits
- Education and daily commuting
- Tourism and family travel
There is also hope that the train will reduce travel uncertainty caused by weather disruptions.
Final Word
The Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is more than just a train—it marks a turning point in Kashmir’s connectivity. With faster journeys, modern comfort and year-round reliability, it is set to reshape travel and boost development across the region.
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