The much-awaited Vande Bharat Express to Kashmir is set to be inaugurated soon, marking a significant step forward in the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. This high-speed train will be flagged off from the Katra railway station, with officials confirming that preparations are progressing well, although the exact date of the inauguration is yet to be finalized.
Preparations in Full Swing
Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyay, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), shared with Rising Kashmir that significant work is being done to ensure the Vande Bharat Express to Kashmir is ready for its launch. While the specific date and time for the inauguration remain pending, Upadhyay stated that the USBRL inauguration is expected to occur before the completion of modernization work at Jammu Railway Station. Once the final schedule is confirmed, it will be made public.
“Preparations for the inauguration are progressing smoothly, and we are ensuring everything is in place. This train service will revolutionize connectivity to the region,” Upadhyay commented.
Train Designed for Extreme Conditions
The Vande Bharat Express is built to withstand the region’s extreme weather conditions, ensuring a safe and comfortable travel experience, particularly during the cold and harsh winters of Kashmir. “This train is specifically designed to handle extreme weather, ensuring smooth travel even in the coldest months,” Upadhyay explained. “It will significantly enhance both safety and comfort for passengers.”
Upgrades to Stations and Infrastructure
As part of the broader development, stations along the route are undergoing substantial upgrades. This includes enhanced security measures, final safety checks on the tracks, and improvements to train systems. Special attention is also being given to passenger amenities to ensure a seamless and comfortable travel experience for everyone.
“The inauguration of the Vande Bharat Express to Kashmir is a historic moment for the region. It will significantly improve both connectivity and accessibility, providing better travel options for the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” Upadhyay added.
The USBRL Project and Its Impact
The 326 km railway line between Katra and Baramulla runs through challenging mountainous terrain, including the world’s highest rail bridge, which spans the Chenab River in Reasi district. This ambitious Rs 41,000 crore project was completed in December 2024, with the Vande Bharat Express expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming months. The railway line also features numerous long and short tunnels, adding to the complexity of its construction.
Modernization of Jammu Tawi Railway Station
In addition to the Vande Bharat Express, the modernization of Jammu Tawi railway station is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed by July 2025. The project aims to improve passenger amenities, infrastructure, and bring the station up to modern standards, providing a more comfortable and efficient experience for travelers.
Amrit Stations and Infrastructure Upgrades
The development of four Amrit Stations—Budgam, Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, and Udhampur—at a cost of ₹292.5 crore is also underway. These stations are being equipped with advanced infrastructure, including six new rail flyovers and under-bridges. In addition, passenger amenities at stations have seen significant improvements since 2014, including the installation of five lifts, six escalators, and Wi-Fi at 28 stations.
Operational Vande Bharat Trains
Currently, two Vande Bharat trains are operational, covering three districts with four unique stoppages in Jammu & Kashmir. These trains are part of the ongoing efforts to improve railway connectivity in the region.
Future Plans for the Srinagar Line
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, in February 2025, confirmed that passengers will need to undergo transshipment at Katra railway station once the Srinagar line begins commercial operations. He also stated that all tests on the USBRL have been completed, and the report from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) is under evaluation.
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express to Kashmir marks a transformative moment for the region’s connectivity. With advanced infrastructure, modernized stations, and a focus on passenger safety and comfort, this development will help integrate Kashmir more closely with the rest of India. As the region continues to progress with major railway upgrades, the future looks promising for both local and national travel.
