Kashmir on track: Vande Bharat to connect Srinagar-Katra from June 7

In a historic leap for regional connectivity, the Indian Railways will commence commercial operations of the Vande Bharat Express between Srinagar and Katra from June 7, transforming travel across Jammu and Kashmir.

Advertisement

The high-speed rail link's launch — set to run six days a week — coincides with the grand inauguration of the world’s highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab river, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi will formally dedicate to the nation on Friday.

The bridge is a central feature of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, a 272-km engineering marvel built at a cost of ₹43,780 crore, comprising 36 tunnels and 943 bridges.

The launch marks a milestone in connecting the Kashmir Valley to one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, Katra, through cutting-edge rail infrastructure.

To pairs of Vande Bharat Express trains — Train No 26404/26403 and 26401/26402 — will ply the Srinagar-Katra-Srinagar route with a key halt at Banihal.

Equipped with modern onboard amenities and reduced travel times, these trains aim to serve both tourists and local commuters with greater speed, comfort and efficiency.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that the service will extend to Jammu by September, once construction on platforms 5 and 6 at Jammu station is complete.

“We are awaiting the completion of infrastructure work. After that, the Vande Bharat will run seamlessly between Srinagar and Jammu,” he said in Jammu on Wednesday.

Senior railway officials also revealed plans for a direct Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat service. This version will feature sleeper coaches tailored for long-haul travel and harsh weather conditions in the region.

"Trials will begin once the sleeper Vande Bharat rakes are ready. The train will be faster than both the Rajdhani and Shatabdi Expresses," an official stated.

The new service promises to be a game-changer, reinforcing regional connectivity while delivering high-speed travel to one of India’s most scenic and strategic corridors.