Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express to Start From Katra
Srinagar, March 31, 2025 – The much-anticipated Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is set to begin operations on April 19, 2025, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagging off the inaugural train from Katra. This marks a historic milestone in the completion of the 272-kilometre Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which has been decades in the making.
Temporary Launch from Katra
The train will initially operate between Katra and Srinagar, as the Jammu railway station is currently undergoing renovation. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh clarified that the temporary arrangement will ensure the timely launch of the service, which has been eagerly awaited by the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Engineering Marvels Along the Route
The Vande Bharat Express will traverse some of the most iconic engineering feats in the region, including:
- Chenab Bridge: The world’s highest railway bridge, standing 359 meters above the riverbed and taller than the Eiffel Tower.
- Anji Khad Bridge: India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
- Tunnel T-49: The country’s longest transportation tunnel, spanning 12.75 kilometers.
These marvels are part of the USBRL project, which faced significant challenges due to the region’s complex geological and topographical conditions.
Significance of the Train Service
The Vande Bharat Express is expected to reduce travel time between Jammu and Srinagar, making the journey more efficient and comfortable. Equipped with advanced features to withstand extreme weather conditions, the train is designed to provide year-round connectivity. This development is seen as a game-changer for the region, boosting tourism, trade, and connectivity.
