Vande Bharat Express Connects Jammu and Srinagar, Marking Historic Rail Milestone

In a landmark development for connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the first direct 20-coach Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Jitendra Singh.

This direct train service between the twin capitals is expected to significantly reduce travel time while providing an all-weather surface transport link. It is also anticipated to boost tourism and strengthen economic and social integration in the region.

The development builds on the earlier milestone when Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first direct train service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar on June 6, 2025. The service has now been extended to the Jammu Tawi Railway Station, enhancing accessibility.

The ambitious railway project, costing ₹43,780 crore, has been decades in the making. Initiated in the late 1990s, it saw the first train run in the Kashmir Valley in October 2008. While rail connectivity reached Udhampur by 2005, the challenging terrain of the Pir Panjal Range delayed the final link until 2025.

The newly launched train will cover a distance of 267 kilometres, offering modern amenities and enhanced passenger comfort. Officials confirmed that trains from both Jammu and Srinagar will operate simultaneously, ensuring efficient connectivity.

Prior to the launch, trial runs were successfully conducted between Jammu and Katra. The service, set to commence regular operations from May 2, will run six days a week, with no service on Tuesdays.

This achievement represents a major step forward in integrating Kashmir with the national rail network, overcoming geographical challenges and opening new avenues for development in the region.