The direct train will cut travel time by 5 hours between the two capitals of Jammu and Kashmir, significantly boosting tourism and passenger convenience
JAMMU
In a historic leap for Jammu and Kashmir’s infrastructure, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw officially flagged off the direct Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar. This milestone marks the first time the two cities have been connected by a high-speed, all-weather rail link, fulfilling a project over seven decades in the making.
The service, was launched in the presence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Minister of State Jitendra Singh. The direct link effectively bypasses the vulnerabilities of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which is frequently shut down by landslides and heavy snow.
Built at a staggering cost of ₹43,780 crore, the rail line is widely regarded as one of the world’s most challenging engineering feats. To conquer the rugged Himalayan terrain, engineers constructed 36 tunnels and over 900 bridges.
The route builds upon the Katra-Srinagar stretch inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2025. By extending the service to Jammu, the railway now provides a seamless corridor for students, traders, and farmers, ensuring that the movement of people and essential goods like Kashmir’s famous apples, remains uninterrupted even in the harshest winter months.
Local officials believe the Vande Bharat service will act as a major catalyst for the regional economy. With travel times drastically reduced, tourism is expected to see a significant surge, offering travelers a scenic and luxury rail experience through the heart of the valley. For the people of J&K, the arrival of the “Blue and White” express signifies a new era of reliable, modern, and rapid connectivity.
Key details
- Capacity: 20-coach high-speed train.
- Distance: 267 kilometers.
- Schedule: 6 days a week (excluding Tuesdays).
- Safety & Comfort: Equipped with indigenous Kavach anti-collision system, GPS passenger info, and 180-degree rotating seats.
