The Vande Bharat train, which currently operates between Katra in J&K’s Reasi district and Srinagar, will soon be extended to start from Jammu railway station, railway officials confirmed on Thursday.
“Preparations are going on to facilitate the expansion of the semi-high-speed service. The plan to link Jammu directly with Srinagar had been delayed due to widespread damage to railway tracks caused by recent incessant rains and floods,” said Divisional Railway Manager Vivek Kumar.
He added that restoration work is being carried out at a rapid pace. “The service will be launched once safety clearances are in place. The delay occurred because of massive damage to tracks due to floods and heavy rains. But sooner or later, this service will be available to the people of Jammu,” he stated.
A Boost to Connectivity
The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat service, launched earlier this year, has already reduced travel time between the Kashmir Valley and the base camp of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. Officials noted that the upcoming extension to Jammu will further strengthen connectivity and ease movement across the Union Territory.
Benefiting Multiple Sections
The expansion is expected to benefit pilgrims, tourists, students, traders, and daily commuters alike. Tourism experts also believe that the direct Jammu–Srinagar route will encourage more visitors to explore the Valley, thereby boosting the local economy.
Railway officials said this step aligns with the broader plan of enhancing infrastructure and passenger convenience in Jammu & Kashmir, making travel faster, safer, and more reliable.
