The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is set to commence operations after January 20, 2025, enhancing connectivity in the Kashmir Valley. Here are seven key points about this new service:
1. Launch Date: The Vande Bharat Express between Katra and Srinagar is scheduled to begin operations after January 20, 2025.
2. Route Details: This service is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, aiming to improve regional connectivity.
3. Engineering Feat: The journey includes crossing the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world's highest rail bridge at 359 meters above the Chenab River, inaugurated in August 2022.
4. Schedule: The train will depart from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) at 8:10 AM, arriving in Srinagar by 11:20 AM. The return journey from Srinagar will start at 12:45 PM, reaching Katra at 3:55 PM.
5. Additional Services: Two Mail Express trains will also operate daily on this route, departing Katra at 9:50 AM and 3:00 PM, reaching Srinagar at 1:10 PM and 6:20 PM, respectively. Return trips from Srinagar are scheduled at 8:55 AM and 3:10 PM.
6. Economic Impact: The new train service is expected to boost tourism, trade, and horticulture in the Kashmir Valley, enhancing access to education and business opportunities.
7. Connectivity with Delhi: The 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 development marks a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity and economic growth in the region.
