Northern Railways has commenced commercial operations of the Vande Bharat Express between Katra and Srinagar on Saturday, marking a monumental step in connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India. This high-speed service, symbolising a blend of modern engineering and strategic connectivity, began its journey from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi railway station carrying 530 passengers.
The route traverses three significant geological thrust zones—Reasi, Murrie, and Panjal—and showcases numerous engineering marvels, underpinning India’s commitment to integrated, sustainable, and equitable development across its diverse geographies. The Vande Bharat Express, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, 2025, from Katra, is designed to enhance connectivity and foster economic development in the region. The 189-kilometre route is divided into two key segments: 111 kilometres from Katra to Banihal, and 78 kilometres from Banihal to Srinagar. On its historic maiden commercial run, an eight-coach Vande Bharat train, powered by an electric engine, departed from Katra at precisely 8:10 AM, reaching its destination in Srinagar by dusk. The rapid reservation of most seats within hours of the train’s debut clearly signals immense public interest and anticipation for this new mode of transport.
The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat route is a testament to advanced railway engineering in challenging terrains. The train navigates through an impressive 27 tunnels and crosses 49 bridges, including the iconic Chenab and Anji Khad bridges, which are themselves engineering marvels. This intricate network of tunnels and bridges not only ensures seamless connectivity but also represents a triumph over the region’s complex geology. The total 272-kilometre Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, of which the Katra–Srinagar section is a crucial component, was constructed at an estimated cost of ₹43,780 crore, underscoring the significant investment in connecting this vital region.
Designed to withstand the harsh climatic conditions of the region, the Vande Bharat train incorporates specialised features such as heated windshields, sophisticated heating systems, and insulated restrooms. These adaptations ensure passenger comfort and operational reliability even in extreme cold. Furthermore, seismic dampers have been installed to absorb vibrations, providing a safer and smoother travel experience in this seismically active area. In winter, a dedicated snow removal locomotive engine will precede the train to clear tracks, ensuring year-round operational continuity.
The fare structure for the Vande Bharat Katra-Srinagar service has been established to cater to different passenger preferences. The Chair Car (CC) tickets are priced at ₹715, while the Executive Class (EC) offers a more premium experience at ₹1,320. Initially, Northern Railway has scheduled four trips per day, utilising two train sets for both up and down journeys. This frequency aims to serve the burgeoning demand from pilgrims visiting Vaishno Devi and tourists exploring the scenic beauty of Kashmir, as well as local commuters.
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express is expected to have a profound socio-economic impact on Jammu & Kashmir. Improved connectivity will not only boost tourism and pilgrimage, thereby stimulating local economies, but also facilitate easier movement for residents, students, and professionals. This modern, efficient, and eco-friendly mode of transport aligns with India’s broader vision of developing robust infrastructure that promotes equitable access to opportunities and reduces carbon emissions from other modes of transport. The Vande Bharat initiative is a critical step towards integrating the region more closely with the national fabric, fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development.
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