Indian Railways Responds to Katra Ticket Crisis

Indian Railways has announced a series of special trains connecting Jammu and Katra to key cities across the country.

Despite heightened security concerns following the Pahalgam terror attack, the spiritual momentum to the hill shrine remains robust, with trains running near capacity and confirmed tickets in scarce supply. The launch of these additional services aims to resolve mounting logistical challenges posed by the seasonal surge in demand. Beginning 2 May, a new special train from New Delhi to Katra will begin operations, joined by two other long-haul routes—Katra to Guwahati and Jammu Tawi to Banaras—designed to streamline pilgrim travel from the eastern and northern regions of India.

Railway officials have confirmed that the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Guwahati Special (04606/04605) will run every Friday from Katra between 2 May and 30 May. Its return leg from Guwahati is scheduled for Mondays, starting 5 May through 2 July. Meanwhile, the Jammu Tawi–Banaras Special (04610/04609) will operate from Jammu Tawi every Thursday from 8 May to 10 July and depart Banaras every Friday from 9 May to 11 July. The move signals Indian Railways’ intent to ensure uninterrupted religious travel while maintaining safety and efficiency. Authorities, under the Ministry of Railways, have underscored their commitment to preserving the sanctity of this high-density pilgrimage corridor through improved connectivity, especially during sensitive periods.

What’s notable is that the consistent demand for Vaishno Devi-bound travel hasn’t buckled under the weight of recent unrest. The resilience of devotees has placed unprecedented pressure on the ticketing system, prompting emergency action by railway planners. These new trains, many of which will feature sleeper and general class coaches, are expected to significantly reduce dependency on waitlisted tickets and third-party travel services. For the northern belt especially, the spiritual and economic significance of the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage cannot be overstated. Local businesses, including transport operators and hospitality providers in Katra and Jammu, stand to benefit immensely from this logistical boost, particularly during the summer season when the influx peaks.

The special train initiative is also in line with broader goals of equitable and accessible transit infrastructure, reinforcing a seamless travel experience for millions of Indians engaging in religious tourism. The expansion of direct routes from distant cities such as Guwahati highlights Indian Railways’ evolving role in nation-building—not just through cargo and commerce, but by reinforcing cultural and spiritual ties across geographies. As the first trains set off from the capital and beyond, the larger question remains: will this surge management become a permanent seasonal strategy, or is it a one-off response to an exceptional year? Either way, the pilgrims are ready—and now, so is the railway network.

Also Read:https://urbanacres.in/western-railway-adds-train-for-akhatij-festival/

Indian Railways Responds to Katra Ticket Crisis