The newly launched Vande Bharat Express connecting Katra to Srinagar has received an enthusiastic reception, with railway authorities confirming that the train is fully booked for the next 10 days. The service, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, represents a transformative step in the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, seamlessly linking the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India via high-speed rail.
According to Jugal Kishor Sharma, Station Superintendent at Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station, the response has been “overwhelming.” He said, “There are no seats available for the next 10 days. People are very excited to travel on this route, and there’s a long waiting list.”
Cutting Travel Time, Connecting Cultures
The Vande Bharat Express reduces the Katra–Srinagar journey to just three hours, shaving off two to three hours compared to existing travel options. The route is particularly significant as it connects Katra, a renowned pilgrimage site, with Srinagar, the cultural heart of Jammu and Kashmir.
Railway staff are working “round-the-clock” to accommodate the surge in passengers, ensuring smooth operations and passenger comfort, Sharma added.
Engineering Marvels Along the Route
The train journey offers more than speed — it’s also a visual and emotional experience. It passes over two iconic bridges:
- Anji Khad Bridge – India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge
- Chenab Bridge – the tallest railway arch bridge in the world
These engineering landmarks symbolise India’s technological prowess and the integration of Kashmir’s challenging terrain into the national transportation network.
Emotional and Political Milestone
Prominent political leaders were quick to highlight the train’s significance. Former J&K Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, who was among the first passengers, became emotional during the ride. “My eyes became teary when the train crossed the Chenab Bridge. It’s the biggest gift for the people of the Union Territory,” he said.
Minister Satish Sharma described the launch as a “historic moment”, celebrating it as a long-awaited development that enhances accessibility and breaks the monopoly of air travel in the region. “It offers people a more affordable and reliable alternative,” he stated.
A Boost to Tourism and Integration
The train’s popularity reflects a growing demand for modern, efficient transport in Jammu and Kashmir. Besides offering greater convenience, it is expected to boost tourism, facilitate pilgrimage, and strengthen socio-economic ties between the region and the rest of the country.
The Vande Bharat’s debut on this strategically important route marks not just a logistical achievement but a symbol of national unity and progress, bridging distances—both literal and emotional—between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India.
