Is the Air Buzzing with Excitement? Vande Bharat Launches Service from Katra to Srinagar!
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Synopsis
The launch of the Vande Bharat Express between Katra and Srinagar marks a transformative moment for Jammu and Kashmir's transport landscape. With a travel time cut to just three hours, this service promises to enhance connectivity for residents and pilgrims alike, boosting local tourism and economic growth. Discover the excitement surrounding this major milestone!
Key Takeaways
- Vande Bharat Express has launched service between Katra and Srinagar.
- Travel time reduced to three hours, enhancing connectivity.
- Train operates six days a week.
- Safety is ensured with commando personnel at the station.
- The service is expected to boost regional tourism and economy.
New Delhi, June 7 (NationPress) Celebrating a significant achievement in the transport system of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), the Vande Bharat Express has officially commenced its regular operations between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar as of Saturday.
The Northern Railway has announced that this semi-high-speed train will run six days a week, reducing travel time between these crucial destinations to a mere three hours, a remarkable cut from the previous six to seven hours required by road.
To guarantee passenger safety and the smooth operation of services, specially trained commando personnel have been deployed at the Katra railway station.
Station Superintendent Jugal Kishore Sharma stated: “The public is filled with immense excitement. All seats seem to be fully booked, and the train comprises eight designated coaches. We anticipate that with the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, the number of pilgrims will increase further, potentially necessitating additional trains. This train will traverse the world’s highest railway bridge, making it a proud moment for all of us.”
The inauguration follows the recent completion of the 272-kilometer Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project, which includes the engineering marvel, the Chenab Bridge, recognized as the highest railway arch bridge globally. Two pairs of Vande Bharat trains, Train Nos. 26404/26403 and 26401/26402, will operate daily with scheduled halts at Banihal.
Local residents have expressed deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Katra resident Shikha Rastogi told IANS: “I wish to extend my thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for realizing the dream of connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari. I’ve been fortunate to meet him twice. I urge all Indians to rally behind him as he leads with a vision of growth and positivity. Congratulations to him for bringing this vision to life.”
Engineered for all-weather conditions, particularly the severe winters of the region, the train boasts advanced heating systems, thermally insulated lavatories, heated windshields, and defrosting mechanisms for uninterrupted service.
Previously, rail connectivity in the region was limited, with services only extending from Banihal to Baramulla in the Valley and Jammu to Katra in the Jammu region.
This new seamless route is expected to significantly benefit both local residents and the influx of pilgrims visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine, while also promoting tourism and stimulating regional economic growth.
Point of View
I observe that the launch of the Vande Bharat Express signifies a remarkable step forward for Jammu and Kashmir, enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth. This development is crucial for both local residents and the influx of pilgrims, and it showcases the government's commitment to improving infrastructure in the region.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the travel time between Katra and Srinagar after the launch of Vande Bharat Express?
The travel time has been reduced to just three hours, significantly lower than the previous six to seven hours by road.
How often will the Vande Bharat Express operate?
The train will operate six days a week.
What safety measures are in place for passengers?
Specially trained commando personnel have been deployed at the Katra railway station to ensure passenger safety.
What is the significance of the Chenab Bridge?
The Chenab Bridge is the highest railway arch bridge in the world and a key engineering feat in the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project.
How will this service impact local tourism?
The new route is expected to boost tourism significantly, especially for pilgrims visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine.
