SRINAGAR: The initial trial of the Vande Bharat Express, connecting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station, Katra, to Budgam, concluded successfully, marking a significant milestone in rail connectivity for Jammu and Kashmir, officials confirmed. The one-way trial run was conducted today. “The train reached Jammu Division last Friday and arrived in Srinagar earlier today,” railway officials stated.
Two Vande Bharat Express rakes, identified as ICF 49 and 80, have been designated for commercial operations along the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) section. “These trains are specifically equipped to endure the frigid winter conditions of the Kashmir Valley, featuring advanced technologies to enhance passenger comfort, operational safety, and reliability,” the officials added.
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The trial run also traversed two iconic engineering marvels: the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, and the Chenab Bridge, which holds the record as the world’s tallest railway bridge. Designed to withstand harsh winter conditions, this is the third Vande Bharat train for the region but the first one to serve the Kashmir Valley. The Northern Railway zone will manage its operations and upkeep.
The train is equipped with cutting-edge heating systems to prevent freezing in water storage and bio-toilet tanks. It also features an innovative air-brake mechanism and warm air circulation to ensure seamless functionality in sub-zero temperatures. Notably, the windshield is embedded with heating elements to automatically defrost the driver’s view during extreme cold, ensuring optimal visibility. All modern amenities found in other Vande Bharat trains—such as fully air-conditioned compartments, automatic doors, and mobile charging ports—are included.
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On its arrival at Jammu railway station last Friday, a unique announcement echoed: “Yatrigan kripya dhyan dein, Vande Bharat train sankhya 244027 Kashmir jane ke liye platform number ek par khadi hai.” The announcement sparked enthusiasm among locals, with many chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and rushing to the platform to witness the train.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to officially inaugurate the service from Katra once the date is finalized. The Commissioner of Railway Safety has already approved its operation on the Katra-Baramulla route. The railways have completed the 272-kilometre USBRL project, further integrating the Kashmir Valley with the national rail network. This achievement highlights India’s commitment to bridging economic and geographical divides.
The train’s specialized features were introduced on June 8 last year when the Railway Board unveiled a model specifically designed to tackle Jammu and Kashmir’s challenging winter conditions. Over the past month, six trial runs were successfully conducted across various sections of the route, including key landmarks like the Anji Khad Bridge and the Chenab Arch Bridge at Kauri.
The Anji Khad Bridge, a feat of engineering, is supported by a single pylon rising 331 meters above the river bed. Spanning a total length of 473.25 meters, it ranks among the highest railway bridges globally, alongside the Chenab Bridge, which stands at an astounding 359 meters—35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower.
