ibn sultan
Jammu, April 30:Union Railway Minister on Thursday flagged off the extended from Jammu to Katra, marking a significant step in enhancing rail connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar.
Speaking at the event, Vaishnaw emphasized that strengthening maintenance practices remains crucial for ensuring safety and security. He added that the next major priority is to increase capacity on the Jammu–Srinagar rail corridor through track doubling, particularly on the Qazigund–Arinagar section, which will allow more trains to operate efficiently.
He highlighted the growing role of the railway line in boosting cargo movement, noting that around 2 crore kilograms of apples have already been transported from Kashmir to Delhi, while 32 bogies have been booked for cherry shipments.
The Minister described the Vande Bharat service on the Jammu–Katra–Srinagar route as a major success, citing full occupancy and high passenger demand. He said the train is equipped with advanced technology that enables smooth functioning even in extreme cold conditions, including temperatures as low as minus 10 degrees Celsius. The newly introduced 20-coach train features upgraded electronics and around 3,000 microchips for enhanced performance.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister said the expansion from 8 to 20 coaches has significantly increased passenger capacity to around 1,400 travelers per trip. He added that the improved rail connectivity is facilitating the transport of goods such as cement, cars, and fruits, and stressed the need for a dry port and customs clearance facilities within the Union Territory.
Union Minister credited Prime Minister and the Railway Ministry for completing the long-awaited rail link to the Kashmir Valley. He recalled the historical milestones of railway expansion in the region, culminating in the present connectivity.
Originally operating between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, the train will now run up to Jammu Tawi, directly linking the region’s largest railway hub with the Valley. The decision to increase the number of coaches comes in response to consistently high demand since its initial launch in June 2025, when the service began with just 8 coaches.
The expansion is expected to ease ticket availability, especially during peak tourist and pilgrimage seasons, while further strengthening connectivity and economic activity in Jammu and Kashmir.
