New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to flag off the much-awaited Vande Bharat Express to Srinagar this week, marking a historic milestone in India’s railway network. This will be the first time the Kashmir Valley will be connected to the rest of the country via a high-speed train, boosting connectivity and signaling a strong message of development and resilience.
Historic Launch of Vande Bharat Train to Srinagar
The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is part of the larger Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL), a key infrastructure project aimed at integrating Jammu & Kashmir with India’s rail network. This launch comes after a delay due to adverse weather conditions and recent security concerns, including the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
Sources suggest that the inauguration of this high-speed train service is not just a transportation achievement but also a significant political and strategic move by the Centre. It demonstrates continued commitment to development in Jammu & Kashmir, despite security threats aimed at destabilizing peace and tourism.
Strategic Importance Amid Security Challenges
The recent attack in Pahalgam was seen as an attempt to derail the economic development fuelled by tourism in the region. Launching the Vande Bharat Express to Srinagar now serves as a strong counter-message of defiance and progress.
According to government officials, the railway line and supporting security infrastructure are fully ready. This includes specialized measures to ensure safety and smooth operations even in harsh winter conditions.
Train Features Tailored for Kashmir’s Terrain
The Vande Bharat train operating on the Katra-Srinagar route has been equipped with advanced features to handle the region’s challenging terrain and climate:
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Automatic doors for enhanced passenger convenience
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Anti-spall layers for increased safety
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Heating systems to ensure reliable operation in cold weather
These upgrades make the train well-suited for year-round operations in the Kashmir Valley.
Engineering Marvels: Chenab and Anji Khad Bridges
The route includes two of India’s most iconic railway engineering feats:
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Chenab Bridge – The world’s highest railway bridge, standing at 359 meters above the river.
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Anji Khad Bridge – India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
The Katra-Srinagar section also includes 119 kilometres of tunnels, forming part of the larger 272-kilometer USBRL corridor. The entire project was completed at an estimated cost of ₹42,930 crore.
Trial Run Successfully Completed
Last month, Indian Railways conducted a successful trial run on the Katra-Qazigund section, carrying army personnel across the Chenab Bridge. This marked a critical step in ensuring the line’s operational readiness and safety.
With the infrastructure in place and weather conditions expected to be favourable, all eyes are now on the official launch date. The Vande Bharat Express to Srinagar will not only transform travel in the region but also support local tourism, trade, and employment.
Conclusion: A Symbol of Progress and Unity
The inauguration of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train is more than just a transport development—it’s a symbol of India’s resolve to integrate and uplift the region. As the first high-speed rail connection to the Kashmir Valley, it promises to usher in a new era of economic growth, national integration, and regional connectivity.
Stay tuned for updates on the official flag-off event by PM Narendra Modi.