Direct Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat to enhance trade, tourism: Vaishnaw

Terming it a vital lifeline for tourism and the regional economy, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday flagged off a 20-coach Vande Bharat Express, establishing a direct rail link between Jammu and Srinagar through the rugged Himalayan terrain.

Speaking at the flagging-off ceremony at Jammu railway station, Vaishnaw said projects such as the Poonch–Rajouri rail link and the Uri–Baramulla extension are currently in the planning and Detailed Project Report (DPR) stages.

Describing the development as a landmark achievement in the history of Indian Railways, he said regular passenger services on the train will commence from May 2.

Vaishnaw informed that two direct Vande Bharat services between Jammu and Srinagar are now operational, with a focus on ensuring stability and maintenance in the challenging Himalayan terrain and extensive tunnel network. He added that work is underway to double the railway line between Qazigund and Baramulla to enhance capacity.

The Minister also highlighted key infrastructure initiatives, including the redevelopment of Jammu railway station with additional platforms and improvements to the Jalandhar–Jammu rail link. He noted that the Union Cabinet’s approval for the Delhi–Ambala four-laning project will further strengthen connectivity and benefit residents of Jammu and Kashmir.

Vaishnaw said the Vande Bharat service in the region has recorded 100 per cent occupancy since its launch, reflecting strong public response. He added that over 5.5 lakh passengers have already travelled on these trains.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Members of Parliament Ghulam Ali Khatana and Sat Paul Sharma were present at the ceremony.

He emphasised that improved rail connectivity has significantly boosted freight movement and helped reduce the cost of essential commodities. Efficient logistics have also enabled the supply of essential goods, including dairy products, and facilitated the transport of over 2 crore kilograms of apples from Kashmir to Delhi. He added that the movement of perishable produce such as cherries is expected to become easier, benefiting farmers and traders.

“The improved connectivity has enhanced the ease of transportation of both goods and passengers. It will benefit travellers across the country by providing year-round rail access to the hilly regions of J&K with a single interchange at Jammu and services operating twice daily,” the Minister said.

He added that the Railways is now focusing on increasing the carrying capacity of trains operating between Jammu and Srinagar.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said the direct train service will significantly enhance ease of travel, improve logistics efficiency, and promote ease of doing business in the region.

He added that better rail connectivity is expected to boost tourist and pilgrim inflow to key destinations while also facilitating smoother movement of security personnel.