Jammu – Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat train service on April 19 from Katra, marking the completion of the 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway link project.
In a press conference held in Jammu, Singh stated, “Prime Minister Modi will arrive in Udhampur on April 19 to visit the world’s highest railway bridge and subsequently flag off the Vande Bharat train from Katra.” Since the Jammu railway station is currently being renovated, the train will begin its operations from Katra.
Officials confirmed that the rail link project was completed last month, with successful trial runs conducted on the Katra-Baramulla route. In January, the Commissioner of Railway Safety granted approval for the train service between Katra and Kashmir.
The Vande Bharat Express is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Jammu and Srinagar, providing a modern, efficient rail service to the region. Its launch responds to the long-standing demand for direct rail connectivity to Kashmir. Currently, train services are limited to the Sangaldan-Baramulla route within the Valley and to various destinations from Katra.
The ambitious project to connect Kashmir by rail began in 1997 but faced numerous delays due to challenging geological, topographical, and meteorological conditions. It includes 38 tunnels stretching 119 km, notably the 12.75 km-long Tunnel T-49, the longest transportation tunnel in India. The project also features 927 bridges spanning 13 km, with the iconic Chenab Bridge being a major highlight. This bridge, measuring 1,315 meters in length and with a 467-meter arch span, rises 359 meters above the riverbed, making it 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower and the highest arch railway bridge globally.
According to the Ministry of Railways, the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat train is specially designed with anti-freezing features. A snow removal train will precede passenger and freight trains to ensure year-round operation in all weather conditions.
To enhance passenger comfort and safety, the Railways has implemented anti-vibration seismic devices in this earthquake-prone region (Zone-V), allowing for faster and safer travel for commuters.
The Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir is uniquely constructed to operate under extreme cold conditions, with temperatures as low as -20°C. It is equipped with advanced heating systems to provide comfort for both passengers and drivers. The driver’s cabin includes a heated windshield to prevent fogging or freezing, ensuring clear visibility, while heating elements in the plumbing and bio-toilets prevent water from freezing, ensuring essential systems function properly during harsh weather.
