The Jammu to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, launching in February 2025, promises a swift journey of approximately 190 kilometres in just three hours. This semi-high-speed train will enhance connectivity and tourism in Kashmir, featuring modern amenities and advanced heating systems for winter operations.
The Jammu to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is an upcoming semi-high-speed train service designed to enhance connectivity between these two key locations in Jammu and Kashmir.
This train will operate between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar, significantly reducing travel time from the current 8-10 hours by road to just about 3 hours.
The train is expected to commence operations in February 2025, following successful trial runs that are currently underway.
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express aims to boost tourism and provide a reliable travel option for both locals and visitors in the region.
Overview of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express
The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is a significant new train service that will connect Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra with Srinagar, marking the first semi-high-speed train for the Kashmir Valley.
The train will operate on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), covering a distance of over 150 km between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
This service is set to enhance travel efficiency, reducing the journey time to approximately 2.5 to 3 hours over a distance of about 150 kilometres.
The train is expected to commence commercial operations in February 2025, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi likely to inaugurate it in the first week of the month.
Recent trial runs have demonstrated the train's capabilities, successfully covering the route and showcasing its advanced features designed for cold climates. The train will operate on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) and is anticipated to stop at key stations such as Reasi and Banihal.