The Vande Bharat Express is all set to be launched on the Katra-Srinagar route, with operations likely to begin on April 19, 2025. This high-speed train is expected to drastically cut down travel time between the two key regions, offering a faster, safer, and more comfortable alternative to road travel.
The new route will cover approximately 190 kilometers, connecting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) to Srinagar, with travel time expected to be reduced to nearly 2.5 to 3 hours. Currently, road travel between these destinations takes anywhere from 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
The Vande Bharat Express is scheduled to be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Before the launch, he is also expected to inspect the world-renowned Chenab Rail Bridge—an engineering marvel that stands taller than the Eiffel Tower and is the highest railway bridge in the world.
The train will run on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), a massive infrastructure project that has brought seamless railway connectivity to the Kashmir Valley. The route has been built through some of the most challenging terrains, including tunnels, bridges, and snow-covered stretches, showcasing India’s engineering capabilities.
Timings and Stops
According to early reports, the Vande Bharat Express will follow a daily schedule as follows:
- Departure from Katra: 8:10 AM
- Arrival in Srinagar: 11:20 AM
- Departure from Srinagar: 12:45 PM
- Arrival in Katra: 3:55 PM
The train will make multiple stops along the route to cater to local commuters and tourists alike. These stops are expected to include:
- Reasi
- Sangaldan
- Banihal
- Qazigund
- Anantnag
- Avantipora
These stations will serve as key access points for both residents and visitors, offering easier travel within the region.
Ticket Pricing
The expected fare for the Vande Bharat Express on this route is:
- AC Chair Car: ₹1,500 – ₹1,600
- Executive Chair Car: ₹2,200 – ₹2,500
The pricing reflects the comfort, speed, and premium services offered onboard, including modern seating, automatic doors, onboard catering, and state-of-the-art safety features.
Boost to Regional Tourism and Economy
The launch of the Vande Bharat Express is more than just a transportation upgrade—it’s a catalyst for economic and social transformation. The shorter travel time is expected to boost tourism in both Jammu and Kashmir. Pilgrims visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra and tourists heading to Srinagar’s famed Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and hill resorts will benefit immensely from the improved connectivity.
Farmers and traders in the Valley will also gain from better transportation of fruits and produce to other markets, enhancing economic opportunities in horticulture and agriculture. Additionally, easier access to educational institutions and medical facilities in urban centers will benefit local residents, especially students and patients from remote areas.
Infrastructure Milestones
This route is also notable for its remarkable engineering features. It includes the Chenab Rail Bridge and the Anji Khad Bridge—the latter being India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge. These structures are not only symbols of engineering excellence but also crucial enablers for rail connectivity in a region that has long been geographically isolated.
Future Expansion Plans
There are plans to extend the Vande Bharat service to begin directly from Jammu Tawi, once ongoing station upgrades are completed. This extension will provide even broader access for travelers from other parts of India heading to Kashmir, further streamlining tourism and economic integration.
The upcoming launch of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is a historic milestone for Jammu and Kashmir. By bridging distances—both literal and metaphorical—it promises to usher in a new era of development, connectivity, and hope for the region. For locals and travelers alike, the train isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s about moving toward a brighter, more connected future.