Indian Railways is gearing up to roll out special Vande Bharat trains to the Kashmir Valley, introducing innovative heating systems to ensure smooth operations in extreme sub-zero temperatures. The first direct train to connect the Kashmir Valley is expected to begin service within this financial year, significantly improving rail connectivity to one of the most challenging terrains in the country.
These new Vande Bharat trains have been specially modified for cold-weather operations, incorporating features such as centralised heating and embedded heating elements. This includes heating elements for the driver’s front lookout glass and advanced insulation to prevent freezing of critical systems. According to officials, this is the first time that Indian Railways has implemented such an arrangement to ensure safe, efficient travel in sub-zero conditions. “The design of the chair car variant of Vande Bharat has been adapted specifically for the Kashmir route, with a focus on maintaining an internal temperature of around 24°C in the air-conditioned coaches,” said a senior railway official. Key adaptations also include silicone heating pads in water tanks and self-regulating heating cables along the plumbing systems to prevent freezing, a common challenge in the Kashmir region.
In addition to these innovations, heaters have been integrated into the air dryer system to ensure the proper functioning of the train’s brake systems, which are crucial in icy conditions. The much-awaited Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, part of a larger Rs 37,012-crore initiative, will provide the region with a direct rail connection to the rest of the country. This rail link will bridge the critical connectivity gap between Jammu and Srinagar and is expected to boost regional development and tourism, particularly in the Kashmir Valley.
The rail link will feature the world’s highest railway bridge across the Chenab River, with the final touches being put on several small tunnels connecting the bridge. The route is expected to be fully operational in the coming weeks, marking a major milestone in improving infrastructure and accessibility in Kashmir. These advancements not only highlight the railways’ commitment to ensuring year-round accessibility to the Kashmir Valley but also underscore its focus on passenger comfort and safety, even in the harshest weather conditions. With the addition of the modified Vande Bharat trains, Indian Railways is taking a significant step towards enhancing the transportation experience for residents and visitors to the region.
