Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is set to launch a direct 20-coach Vande Bharat train service between Jammu and Srinagar on April 30. This new service aims to enhance tourism and reduce travel time between the two cities, with regular public services starting from May 2. The historic rail link between Katra town in Jammu and Srinagar was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, 2025.
The long-awaited rail link project, connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, began in the late 1990s after nearly 70 years of anticipation. The first train within the Kashmir Valley started operating in October 2008, with a total cost of Rs 28,000 crore for establishing the link between the Kashmir Valley and Jammu division. This ambitious project involved laying tracks across challenging Himalayan terrain, showcasing remarkable engineering feats.
The upcoming 20-coach Vande Bharat train will embark on its inaugural journey from Jammu Tawi to Srinagar, providing connectivity across difficult geographical landscapes. Officials mentioned that a train will simultaneously depart from Srinagar to Jammu on the same day the service commences. The train service, operating six days a week between the two cities, will cover a distance of 267 kilometers, offering passengers a top-notch travel experience with modern amenities.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal highlighted that the Vande Bharat Express, built with indigenous technology, features advanced safety systems, a GPS-based passenger information system, and comfortable rotating seats. This service not only aims to reduce travel time but also boost the local economy and tourism significantly. The introduction of the 20-coach train, replacing the previous eight-coach service, will accommodate more passengers on the Katra-Srinagar route.
