Direct Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Service Begins
In a major boost to connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the extended Vande Bharat Express service connecting Jammu directly to Srinagar. The launch marks a significant milestone in improving transportation infrastructure in the region.
The semi-high-speed train, which earlier operated between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, has now been extended up to Jammu Tawi. With this extension, passengers can now travel between Jammu and Srinagar in less than five hours, making the journey faster and more convenient.
The upgraded train will operate with 20 coaches instead of the earlier eight, offering enhanced capacity and modern amenities. Designed specifically for the challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions of the Kashmir Valley, the train is equipped with advanced heating systems to ensure smooth functioning even in sub-zero temperatures. This ensures comfort and safety for both passengers and crew.
The train is expected to significantly boost tourism in the region by improving access to popular destinations such as Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonmarg. Additionally, it will benefit local residents by facilitating easier travel, promoting trade, and contributing to overall socio-economic development.
All preparations, including infrastructure upgrades, trial runs, and security arrangements, have been completed ahead of the launch. The train will initially depart from Jammu Tawi at 10:30 AM, halt at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and other stations, and reach Srinagar the same day.
Regular operations of the train are set to begin soon, with services running six days a week except Tuesdays. The daily service will depart from Jammu early morning and reach Srinagar before noon, completing the journey in approximately four hours and fifty minutes.
This development also comes ahead of the annual movement of the Civil Secretariat to Srinagar and is expected to benefit pilgrims visiting the Amarnath shrine. Overall, the direct rail link marks a transformative step towards better integration and development of Jammu and Kashmir.
