USBRL Project: Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Expected To Launch Before Holi 2025
Reasi: Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train will pass over the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest rail bridge. Operations are expected to commence on March 6 or 7.
The highly awaited Jammu to Srinagar Vande Bharat train is expected to begin commercial operations soon. This will be the third semi-high-speed train for Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and the first for the Kashmir Valley. Operated and maintained by the Northern Railway (NR) zone, the train will cross the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge.
Reports indicate that operations may start on March 6 or 7, before Holi 2025 though no official confirmation has been made by Indian Railways or government authorities. Meanwhile, sources suggest that Northern Railway officials have been instructed to prepare for the launch and limit staff leave.
Excitement is building among travelers eagerly awaiting the official launch of the Jammu to Srinagar Vande Bharat train. Many have expressed their enthusiasm, urging for the service to begin soon. However, the Ministry of Railways has yet to announce a confirmed launch date.
Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat: Expected Ticket Prices
Although the final ticket prices have not been officially declared, estimates suggest:
AC Chair Car: ₹1,500 – ₹1,600
Executive Chair Car: ₹2,200 – ₹2,500
These fares are subject to revision once the official confirmation is provided by Indian Railways.
Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat: Route, Timings, and Features
Expected Route and Stoppages
The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express will run along the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), improving connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. Key stoppages on the route include:
Katra
Reasi
Sangaldan
Banihal
Qazigund
Anantnag
Awantipora
This train is expected to significantly reduce travel time, providing a comfortable and efficient journey for passengers.
Train Timings
As per Northern Railway’s recent announcement, the train schedule is as follows:
Departure from Katra: 8:10 AM → Arrival in Srinagar: 11:20 AM
Departure from Srinagar: 8:55 AM → Arrival in Katra: 12:05 PM
Advanced Features
The Vande Bharat Express is equipped with modern safety and passenger-friendly features, including:
KAVACH anti-collision system
Faster acceleration & fully sealed gangways
Automatic plug doors & ergonomic reclining seats Mini pantry with hot case, deep freezer, and bottle cooler CCTV surveillance & mobile charging sockets at every seat.
Designed for extreme cold conditions, the train can operate in temperatures as low as -20°C. Special bio-toilets are also equipped to prevent water from freezing in sub-zero conditions.
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