Jammu, Apr 30: Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday flagged off the extended Vande Bharat Express service from Jammu to Katra, highlighting the Centre’s commitment to improving rail infrastructure, passenger convenience, and cargo transportation across the Jammu–Srinagar corridor.
Addressing the gathering during the launch ceremony, the Railway Minister said the government’s immediate priority remains strengthening railway safety through advanced maintenance systems while simultaneously expanding line capacity to accommodate rising passenger and freight demand.
Vaishnaw announced that track doubling work between Qazigund and Arinagar would play a crucial role in boosting train operations on the strategically important corridor. He noted that modern rail technologies used across Europe are now being implemented in Jammu and Kashmir to improve efficiency and operational reliability.
He also underlined the railway network’s growing contribution to Kashmir’s economy, especially in transporting horticultural produce. According to the minister, nearly two crore kilograms of apples have already been transported from Kashmir to Delhi through the rail network, while 32 railway bogies have been specially booked for cherry shipments this season.
The minister described the Jammu-Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat route as a major operational success since its launch. He stated that the service has witnessed full occupancy with more than 5.5 lakh passengers travelling on the route so far.
Vaishnaw said the train has been specially designed to operate smoothly in extreme winter conditions prevalent in the Kashmir Valley. He explained that the train can function efficiently even at temperatures as low as minus 10 degrees Celsius due to upgraded piping systems that prevent water from freezing.
Referring to modifications introduced after winter trials, he said the newly introduced 20-coach train includes higher-grade electronics and nearly 3,000 advanced microchips for improved performance and passenger safety. He further added that regional cuisine, including Dogri and Kashmiri food, is being served onboard to provide travellers with a more localised experience.
Omar Abdullah, who was present at the event, welcomed the expansion of the rail service and described it as a historic step in integrating Jammu and Srinagar through modern railway connectivity.
Abdullah said the earlier 8-coach train has now been upgraded to a 20-coach configuration, increasing passenger capacity to nearly 1,400 travellers per trip. He noted that the railway line has already started transforming trade and transport in the Union Territory.
The Chief Minister said goods including cement, automobiles, and horticulture produce are now being transported efficiently through the rail network. He also reiterated the demand for a dry port facility in Jammu and Kashmir along with customs clearance infrastructure to support exports directly from the region.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Railway Ministry for completing the long-awaited rail link connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country.
Singh recalled that railway connectivity reached Jammu in 1972 and Katra after several decades, but progress beyond Katra remained stalled for years. He said the present government revived the ambitious project, leading to the completion of iconic infrastructure including the world’s highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River and the Anji Khad Bridge.
The extended Vande Bharat service, which earlier operated only between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, will now run up to Jammu Tawi, directly linking the Union Territory’s largest railway hub with the Kashmir Valley.
When Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express on June 6, 2025, the train initially operated with eight coaches. However, continued heavy demand from tourists, pilgrims, business travellers, and local commuters prompted the Railways to significantly increase capacity.
Officials said the decision to introduce a 20-coach rake will more than double seating availability, reduce waiting lists, and improve travel convenience during peak tourist and pilgrimage seasons.