Historic Milestone: Vande Bharat Express Set to Connect Katra to Srinagar on April 19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the first Vande Bharat Express from Katra to Srinagar on April 19, marking a significant achievement in India’s infrastructure development. This historic train service will not only link the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India but also fulfill a 70-year-old dream of seamless connectivity to the region.

A New Era of Connectivity

The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is expected to revolutionize travel in Kashmir, significantly reducing journey time and providing year-round connectivity. The train, equipped with advanced anti-freezing technology, is designed to function flawlessly even in the harshest winter conditions, a common challenge in the Kashmir Valley.

The much-awaited train service will begin its journey in Katra, traversing the scenic Pir Panjal mountain range and extending all the way to Baramulla in North Kashmir. The Vande Bharat Express will offer passengers an efficient and comfortable travel experience, supporting the region’s burgeoning tourism industry, agriculture, and education sectors.

PM Modi’s Visit and Inauguration

On April 19, PM Modi will arrive at Udhampur Army Airport before visiting the Chenab Bridge, the world’s tallest railway bridge, where he will receive a detailed briefing on its remarkable construction. Later, the Prime Minister will head to Katra to flag off the Vande Bharat Express, a momentous occasion that will be attended by key figures, including Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.

Before concluding his visit, PM Modi will address a public rally in Katra, celebrating this achievement and highlighting its transformative impact on the region.

A Step Towards Seamless Travel

While there won’t be a direct train from Delhi to Kashmir for now, passengers will have the option to switch trains at Katra for the onward journey to Srinagar. However, railway officials have confirmed that by mid-2025, once expansion work at Jammu Railway Station is completed, a direct train service between Jammu and Kashmir will be launched, further simplifying travel to the region.

A Major Investment in Kashmir’s Future

The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, spanning 272 km, has been under development for several years. With an investment of Rs 41,000 crore, it is set to open up new opportunities for Kashmir’s economy. Key sections of the rail network, such as the 118 km Qazigund-Baramulla stretch and the 25 km Udhampur-Katra section, are already operational, with the final segment completed earlier this year.

This rail link promises to reduce Kashmir’s dependence on the often treacherous Jammu-Srinagar Highway, providing an all-weather transportation option that will ensure smoother and safer connectivity.

Designed for Extreme Winters

The new Vande Bharat Express is specially designed to operate in extreme cold, capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -20°C. Built by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, the train features state-of-the-art heating systems for passenger comfort, CCTV cameras for safety, and anti-frost windshields to ensure clear visibility, even during heavy snowfalls.

Economic Growth on the Horizon

This new rail service will bring far-reaching benefits to the region. By boosting tourism, agriculture, and industry, the rail link will facilitate the transportation of goods and people, reducing costs and supporting local businesses. Moreover, the improved infrastructure will enhance Kashmir’s economic growth, ensuring a better quality of life for its people.

“This rail link is more than just a transport route; it’s a lifeline for Kashmir’s economic development,” said a senior railway official.

A Historic Leap for Kashmir

The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express marks a new chapter for the region, ensuring faster travel, greater connectivity, and enhanced opportunities for growth. As the train takes its first journey, it symbolizes a vision for the future—one that brings the people of Kashmir closer to the rest of India while offering a glimpse of progress and prosperity.

With Inputs from IANS