New Delhi, Apr 29 (TNT): Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will flag off the extended Vande Bharat Express service connecting Srinagar to Jammu Tawi from Jammu Tawi Railway Station on April 30.
The train, which was earlier operating between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, has now been extended to Jammu Tawi, providing seamless connectivity to one of the busiest railheads in northern India.
The extended service will begin regular operations from May 2, 2026, with two pairs of trains running six days a week, offering both morning and afternoon travel options between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar.
In a release on Wednesday, Railway officials said the decision to augment the train from 8 coaches to 20 coaches was taken in response to high passenger demand, significantly increasing seating capacity and easing waitlists, especially during peak pilgrimage and tourist seasons.
The service will cover a distance of about 266 km, with key halts at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi and Banihal.
Travel time between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar is expected to be under five hours.
The extension is expected to benefit pilgrims visiting the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple as well as tourists and local commuters by eliminating the need for a change of train at Katra, enabling a direct journey between Jammu and Srinagar.
Officials said the move will also boost tourism and trade in the region, offering a reliable all-weather transport option, particularly during winter when road connectivity is often disrupted.
During the visit, the Union Minister will also inspect key infrastructure projects under the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, including the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge and Anji Khad Bridge, both considered engineering landmarks.
The extension marks another milestone in strengthening rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir and integrating the region more closely with the national rail network.
TNT KS
Leave a Reply