In a landmark development for rail connectivity in the Kashmir region, the first Vande Bharat Express has successfully completed its trial run from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station in Katra to Budgam, marking its arrival in Srinagar for the very first time. Railway officials celebrated this significant achievement, emphasizing the train’s potential to transform travel in the picturesque Kashmir Valley.
The trial run, which took place on Friday, saw the Vande Bharat Express traverse through breathtaking landscapes, arriving in the Kashmir Valley before reaching its final destination in Srinagar. Northern Railway officials confirmed that this state-of-the-art train is now poised for commercial operation in the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) section.
Designed with cutting-edge technology to withstand the harsh winter conditions of Kashmir, this Vande Bharat Express is the third of its kind introduced for Jammu Kashmir but notably the first to serve the scenic Kashmir Valley. The train features advanced heating systems to prevent freezing of water and bio-toilet tanks, ensuring passenger comfort even in sub-zero temperatures.
Among its impressive attributes are a unique air-brake system and warm air circulation designed for smooth operations in extreme cold. The train is equipped with embedded heating elements in the windshield to eliminate frost buildup, while triple-layered windscreens with heating filaments guarantee clear visibility for drivers, even during heavy snowfall. With these enhancements, the Vande Bharat Express can operate efficiently in temperatures as low as -30°C.
The completion of the USBRL project, spanning 272 kilometers, opens up exciting possibilities for tourism and trade in the Kashmir region. Anticipation is building as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the remaining 17 kilometers of this vital rail link in February, specifically between Reasi and Katra. This new direct train service from Kashmir to Delhi is set to launch soon, promising a cost-effective and convenient travel option that will likely boost tourism in the Valley.
Traveling 800 kilometers in under 13 hours will become a reality for passengers travelling from national capital to Kashmir and vice versa. Passengers can look forward to a mesmerizing journey through some of the most challenging terrains in the Himalayas. The railway line boasts more bridges and tunnels than any other in India, featuring approximately 931 bridges and 38 tunnels. Notably, it includes the Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel, stretching an impressive 11.21 kilometers, as well as the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River, which towers at 359 meters—taller than the Eiffel Tower.
This vital rail connection promises to bring Srinagar closer to the heart of India, heralding a new era of travel and trade opportunities for the Kashmir Valley. As anticipation builds for the full operational launch of this service, locals and tourists alike are eager to experience the convenience and beauty of train travel through one of India’s most stunning regions.
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