In a landmark achievement for India’s railway network, the Vande Bharat Express successfully completed its inaugural trial run from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar on January 25, 2025. This event marks a significant milestone in connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country through advanced rail infrastructure.
The trial commenced at 9:00 AM from Katra and concluded in Srinagar at 12:00 PM, covering a distance of approximately 150 kilometers in just 3 hours. The journey traversed engineering marvels such as the Chenab Rail Bridge—the world’s highest railway bridge—and the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
Significance of the Route
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, under which this route falls, aims to provide seamless all-weather connectivity to the Kashmir Valley. The successful trial run of the Vande Bharat Express is a testament to the project’s progress and the Indian Railways’ commitment to enhancing regional connectivity.
Future Prospects
Following this successful trial, regular services of the Vande Bharat Express between Katra and Srinagar are anticipated to commence soon. This development is expected to significantly boost tourism and economic activities in the region, offering passengers a faster and more comfortable travel option.
The Vande Bharat Express’s arrival in Kashmir symbolizes a new era of connectivity and development, bringing the region closer to the national mainstream