In a landmark development poised to transform connectivity and boost socio-economic growth in the region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today flagged off the much-anticipated Vande Bharat Express train connecting Katra with Srinagar. This significant event marks the completion of the monumental 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a testament to India’s engineering prowess and commitment to integrating the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country.
The launch ceremony, held in Jammu and Kashmir, saw the Prime Minister inaugurate key infrastructure marvels of the USBRL project, including the world’s highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River and India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, Anji Khad Bridge. These engineering feats, once considered distant dreams, are now integral parts of a railway network designed to provide all-weather, seamless connectivity.
Reduced Travel Time and Enhanced Comfort
The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is set to drastically reduce travel time between the two significant locations to approximately three hours, a considerable improvement from the existing road journey that often takes 6-7 hours. This semi-high-speed train offers a swift, comfortable, and reliable travel option for residents, tourists, and pilgrims alike.
Designed for Himalayan Challenges
Recognizing the unique and often harsh winter conditions of the Himalayan region, the Vande Bharat Express trains deployed on this route have been specially engineered to withstand extreme temperatures. They are equipped with climate-specific adaptations, including heating at sub-zero temperatures, defrosting elements embedded on the driver’s lookout glass, heated windscreens, and thermally insulated lavatories. This ensures efficient functionality even when temperatures drop to minus 20 degrees Celsius, guaranteeing year-round operation. To further support uninterrupted travel, a snow removal train will operate ahead of the Vande Bharat to clear tracks in high-risk zones, and seismic dampers have been installed to absorb tremors.
Train Services and Schedule
Regular services of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express will commence from June 7, 2025. Initially, two pairs of Vande Bharat Express trains will operate six days a week, with an intermediate halt at Banihal.
- Train Number 26401/26402 (Katra – Srinagar – Katra):
- Train 26401 will depart Katra at 8:10 AM, reaching Srinagar at 11:08 AM, with a stop at Banihal at 9:58 AM.
- Train 26402 will leave Srinagar at 2:00 PM, arriving in Katra at 4:48 PM, with a stop at Banihal at 3:10 PM.
- This service will not operate on Tuesdays.
- Train Number 26403/26404 (Srinagar – Katra – Srinagar):
- Train 26404 will depart Srinagar at 8:00 AM, reaching Katra at 10:58 AM, with a stop at Banihal at 9:02 AM.
- Train 26403 will leave Katra at 2:55 PM, arriving in Srinagar at 5:53 PM, with a stop at Banihal at 4:40 PM.
- This service will not operate on Wednesdays.
It is important to note that while currently the only scheduled stop is Banihal, additional halts may be decided upon later. Initially, services will run between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar. Once the redevelopment work at Jammu Tawi railway station is completed, the Vande Bharat Express will extend its services to Jammu from Srinagar.
Ticket Fares and Booking
Ticket bookings for the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express have already commenced and can be made through the official IRCTC website and mobile application, or at PRS (Passenger Reservation System) counters at railway stations.
- For Train Number 26401/26402:
- Chair Car (CC) fare from Katra to Srinagar: ₹715
- Executive Class (EC) fare from Katra to Srinagar: ₹1,320
- For Train Number 26403/26404:
- Chair Car (CC) fare from Srinagar to Katra: ₹715
- Executive Class (EC) fare from Srinagar to Katra: ₹1,320
- The fare for a Chair Car seat from Katra to Srinagar on this train is ₹660, and for Executive Class, it is ₹1,270.
Modern Amenities for a Premium Travel Experience
The Vande Bharat Express offers a host of modern amenities to ensure a comfortable journey for passengers. These include:
- Airline-style Rotatable Seats: Providing enhanced comfort, especially for longer journeys.
- On-board Catering: Ensuring passengers have access to meals and beverages.
- Large Windows: Offering panoramic views of the stunning Himalayan landscapes.
- On-board Wi-Fi and Infotainment Systems: Keeping passengers connected and entertained.
- Automatic Doors and GPS-based Passenger Information Systems: For convenience and real-time updates.
- Electric Outlets, Reading Lights, Seat Pockets, Bottle Holders, and Tray Tables: Catering to passenger needs.
- KAVACH Collision Avoidance System: An advanced safety feature.
A Catalyst for Growth
The inauguration of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is more than just the launch of a train service; it represents a monumental step towards greater connectivity, economic growth, and social integration in Jammu and Kashmir. By providing reliable and comfortable all-weather rail access, the project is expected to significantly boost tourism, facilitate business activities, and improve the daily commute for local residents, truly integrating the picturesque valley with the broader national fabric.