PM Modi to flag off first train from Katra to Srinagar soon, says official

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to flag off the first train from Katra to Srinagar in the coming days, according to a senior official from Northern Railways.

Although the exact date for the flagging-off ceremony has not been confirmed, the official stated that the railway track has been thoroughly inspected multiple times and has received approval from experts, clearing the way for the train’s imminent launch.

The holy town of Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, is likely to see an increased influx of visitors once the train service to Srinagar begins. Officials revealed that passengers traveling from New Delhi to Srinagar will need to disembark at Katra and board a special Vande Bharat train, specifically designed to handle the Valley’s unique climatic conditions.

While some reports suggested that the train could be flagged off on February 17, the official clarified that no date has been confirmed yet. “There were messages circulating on social media about February 17 being the launch date, but the final date has not been confirmed. However, it is certain that the train will be flagged off very soon,” the official said.

The first successful trial run of the Vande Bharat train from Katra to Srinagar was completed last month.