Srinagar Vande Bharat trains fully booked, officials plan coach upgrade
Train travel between Katra and Srinagar has hit peak demand, with Vande Bharat Express services completely booked for the entire month of July. The unprecedented rush, driven by Amarnath Yatra movement and highway restrictions, has left prospective passengers scrambling for seats. In response, railway authorities are reportedly planning to increase coach capacity on the popular route, which has reduced travel time and gained popularity for its speed and comfort.
The two Vande Bharat trains operating between Katra and Srinagar are currently running at full capacity, with waiting lists exceeding 40 on most days through July. The surge follows security advisories on National Highway 44, a critical route between Jammu and Kashmir, which has witnessed heightened vigilance during the ongoing 38-day Amarnath pilgrimage. Passengers, hoping to avoid road travel delays, are increasingly opting for rail. As per officials from the Jammu Railway Division, over 530 seats in each train are routinely booked out, forcing many to wait until August for a confirmed ticket. Each service completes four daily trips over the 200-kilometre route in just three hours, making it an attractive option for both pilgrims and tourists. In response to the overwhelming demand, authorities have sought approval for additional coaches and improved frequency, especially to accommodate weekend travellers and peak-season commuters.
Railway planners are now exploring ways to not only add Chair Car and Executive Class coaches but also revise the service schedule to better suit working professionals and same-day travellers. Current departure and return times are being reconsidered, with experts suggesting an early morning start from Katra and a late evening return from Srinagar. This adjustment could benefit those seeking convenient round trips. Authorities are also studying feedback about digital amenities, including the introduction of onboard internet connectivity, given rising expectations for uninterrupted access during travel. Meanwhile, the Vande Bharat Express continues to operate over the iconic Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), which includes the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River. Since its launch in early June, the high-speed rail line has transformed regional transport dynamics, but the strain on limited seats is being felt sharply. The current overbooking trend reflects both high demand and limited infrastructure capacity.
As travel demand in Kashmir continues to grow, especially during religious festivals and peak tourism periods, the Vande Bharat Express is struggling to keep pace. The railways’ plan to increase coaches, optimise travel schedules, and improve passenger amenities could go a long way in making the journey more accessible and efficient. However, the continued absence of direct connectivity to Jammu and Delhi, owing to ongoing station upgrades, limits the full potential of this transformative route. With public feedback mounting, authorities are under pressure to implement swift measures and ensure that premium rail services deliver on their promise of seamless travel.
