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The Vande Bharat train service between Katra and Srinagar is set to commence after January 20, 2025, marking a significant step towards improving connectivity in the Kashmir Valley. This new service will provide passengers with a fast, comfortable, and reliable travel option, enhancing their travel experience and contributing to the region’s economic growth.
The initiative, managed by the Northern Railway zone, is a milestone in Indian rail transport, with a particular focus on benefiting both locals and tourists. Let’s have a look at the train:
Starting date: The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is set to begin after January 20, 2025, providing a fast and efficient travel option for passengers in the Kashmir Valley.
Route: This new train service is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Batamulla Rail Link (USBRL), an ambitious project aimed at improving connectivity in the region.
Engineering Marvel – Chenab Rail Bridge: The route features the Chenab Rail Bridge, which is the world’s highest rail bridge, standing 359 meters above the Chenab River. This bridge, inaugurated in August 2022, highlights India’s engineering capabilities.
Schedule: The Vande Bharat Express will depart from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) at 8:10 AM, reaching Srinagar by 11:20 AM. It will also offer a return trip from Srinagar at 12:45 PM, arriving in Katra at 3:55 PM.
Mail Express Options: In addition to the Vande Bharat Express, two Mail Express trains will operate daily on the same route. These trains will depart Katra at 9:50 AM and 3:00 PM, reaching Srinagar at 1:10 PM and 6:20 PM. The return departures from Srinagar will be at 8:55 AM and 3:10 PM.
Regional boost: The train service is expected to stimulate tourism, trade, and horticulture in the Kashmir Valley. It will also improve access to education and business opportunities in the region.
Connectivity with Delhi: The new rail link will strengthen connections with Delhi, with trains departing from Delhi at 7:00 PM and arriving in Srinagar at 8:00 AM the next day, providing an efficient route between the two cities.
This definitely comes as a New Year gift from Indian Railways to devotees.
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