Indian Railways is preparing to extend the Vande Bharat Express to run directly between Jammu and Srinagar, officials said on Thursday, September 25. The train, which now starts from Katra, is expected to originate from Jammu once restoration of flood-damaged tracks is completed and safety clearances are secured.
Delay caused by floods and rains
Divisional Railway Manager Jammu, Vivek Kumar, said that work on the extension was delayed after recent floods and heavy rain caused significant damage to the line. “We are working on it. The delay occurred because of massive damage to tracks due to floods and heavy rains. But sooner or later, this service will be available to the people of Jammu,” he said, sources reported. Kumar added that repairs are progressing quickly, and the service will begin as soon as final inspections are cleared.
Daily service to cut travel time
Introduced earlier this year, the Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express has already reduced travel time for passengers heading to the Kashmir Valley and the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. Once the service begins from Jammu, the train will run daily and cut down travel time between the two cities. Railways officials said the extension will ease the journey for pilgrims heading to Vaishno Devi, students, traders and tourists.
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The Jammu-Srinagar rail link is regarded as one of the toughest railway projects in the world. It includes the Chenab bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, and the Anji Khad bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge. More than two dozen tunnels allow the train to pass through the challenging Himalayan terrain.
Launch date yet to be confirmed
Officials have not announced a formal launch date for the extended service. The Railways has indicated that operations will start once track restoration and safety certification are complete. The project is expected to give a major push to regional connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
