In a historic move set to redefine connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Railways will launch the first-ever Vande Bharat Express between Katra and Srinagar on April 19, 2025. This premium semi-high-speed train will drastically reduce the travel time between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar from 6–7 hours to just over 3 hours, offering both speed and comfort to pilgrims, tourists, and residents alike.
The flag-off ceremony will be led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscoring the national significance of this groundbreaking railway project. The Northern Railway (NR) zone will operate and maintain this state-of-the-art orange and grey Vande Bharat train, which will soon become a lifeline of the region.
A Marvel of Engineering: 36 Tunnels, Iconic Bridges
The train route runs through the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) — a stunning feat of engineering nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Covering 272 kilometers, this railway line includes 36 major tunnels stretching over 119 kilometers, offering passengers panoramic views of Kashmir’s natural beauty while riding on cutting-edge infrastructure.
Some of the engineering highlights include:
Tunnel T-80 (11.2 km): Built under the Pir Panjal range, it provides all-weather connectivity, bypassing treacherous, snow-covered passes.
Tunnel T-50: The longest transport tunnel in India, cutting through unstable rock formations like phyllite and quartzite, connected with an emergency tunnel via cross-passages.
Tunnel T-34 (5.1 km): Links directly to the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
Tunnel T-25 (3 km): Took six years to complete due to an underground water stream, setting a new standard for tunnel construction in extreme conditions.
Each tunnel stands as a testament to the advanced tunneling technology and engineering brilliance used to overcome harsh weather, landslides, and geological challenges.
Iconic Structures Along the Route
Apart from the tunnels, the train will pass over a series of breathtaking bridges, including the Chenab Bridge — the world’s highest railway bridge, and the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge.
With successful trial runs recently completed, the route promises unparalleled safety, speed, and scenic experiences for travelers.
A Leap Towards Development & Integration
This Vande Bharat Express is not just a train — it’s a symbol of integration, progress, and nation-building. It connects the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India more seamlessly than ever before. The project is also expected to boost tourism, local trade, and employment, giving a significant push to the socio-economic development of the region.
As India witnesses yet another infrastructural milestone, the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express stands as a proud example of engineering excellence, political will, and the vision of a new, connected India.
