Kashmir Valley first Vande Bharat train will be flagged off by PM Modi on April 19. Get details on fares, stops, and other key information.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the first-ever Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir Valley on April 19, marking a historic step in connecting the region with the rest of India. This long-awaited railway service will significantly enhance connectivity, benefiting tourism, trade, and daily commutes.
A Major Step in Kashmir’s Railway Connectivity
The new Vande Bharat Express will operate between Katra and Srinagar, providing an all-weather transport option for residents and visitors. Designed with advanced anti-freezing technology, the train is built to function smoothly in Kashmir’s extreme winter conditions.
This service is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a decades-long effort to integrate Kashmir into India’s railway network. Until now, only the Sangaldan-Baramulla section of the route was operational. The extension to Katra will reduce travel time and provide seamless transit across the region.
Kashmir Valley First Vande Bharat Train Express: Route, Timing, Stops & Ticket Prices
The much-awaited Kashmir Valley First Vande Bharat Train Express is set to enhance connectivity between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar, covering a total distance of 203 km. The semi-high-speed train will offer a faster, more comfortable journey for passengers traveling across the region.
Vande Bharat Express Train Timings
- Departure from Katra (SVDK) – 08:10 AM
- Arrival in Srinagar – 11:20 AM
- Return from Srinagar – 12:45 PM
- Arrival back at Katra (SVDK) – 03:55 PM
The train will complete the journey in approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes, offering a swift and efficient mode of transport between Jammu and Kashmir’s key destinations.
Route and Stops
The Kashmir Vande Bharat Express will stop at:
Sangaldan Banihal
These stations have been strategically chosen to ensure smooth connectivity for passengers traveling between Jammu, Banihal, and Kashmir Valley.
Ticket Prices
The train will offer two seating classes with the following fares:
- AC Chair Car (CC) – ₹885 per journey
- Executive Chair Car (EC) – ₹1,915 per journey
Rs 41,000 Crore Project Nears Completion
The 272 km USBRL project has been constructed in multiple phases over the years:
- Qazigund-Baramulla (118 km) – Operational since 2009
- Banihal-Qazigund (18 km) – Opened in 2013
- Udhampur-Katra (25 km) – Started in 2014
- Banihal-Sangaldan (48 km) – Completed in 2023
- Sangaldan-Reasi (46 km) – Completed in 2023
The last remaining 17 km between Reasi and Katra was recently finished, enabling the final safety trials for Vande Bharat Express on the route.
Kashmir Valley First Vande Bharat Train Winter-Ready Train with Advanced Features
The Kashmir Valley First Vande Bharat Train is designed to operate in extreme cold, with:
Temperature resistance up to -20°C Heated compartments for passenger comfort Shatterproof windows & anti-frost windshields CCTV surveillance & emergency talk-back units
These features will ensure uninterrupted train service even during heavy snowfall and icy conditions.
Economic Boost for Kashmir
With year-round railway access, Kashmir’s economy is expected to flourish, benefiting industries like:
- Tourism – Easier travel for visitors from across India.
- Agriculture & Horticulture – Faster transportation of apples, saffron, and dry fruits.
- Local Businesses – Reduced costs for moving goods and supplies.
“This rail link is more than just a transport service—it’s a lifeline for Kashmir’s economic growth,” a railway official said.
The launch of Kashmir Valley First Vande Bharat Train is a landmark moment, bringing faster travel, economic opportunities, and improved accessibility to the region. With PM Modi set to flag off the train on April 19, Kashmir is entering a new era of connectivity and development.
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