In a historic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Vande Bharat Express train service to the Kashmir Valley on February 17, 2025. This event marks the realization of a long-cherished dream of establishing a rail link to the landlocked region, significantly enhancing connectivity and boosting the local economy.
Kashmir Vande Bharat: A Technological Marvel
The Vande Bharat train will traverse the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, one of most ambitious and challenging railway projects of India. This route includes the iconic Anji Khad Bridge, first cable-stayed bridge of India with a 331-meter-high pylon, and the Chenab Railway Bridge, the highest railway bridge of the world standing at 359 meters above the river bed.
Vande Bharat Advanced Features for Harsh Conditions
Designed to operate efficiently in harsh winter conditions of Jammu and Kashmir, the Vande Bharat Express train is equipped with advanced climate-resistant technologies. These include heating systems to prevent freezing of water and bio-toilet tanks, an optimized air-brake system for sub-zero temperatures, and embedded heating elements in the windshield to defrost front lookout glass of the driver.
Enhanced Passenger Experience with Kashmir Vande Bharat Express
Passengers can look forward to a comfortable journey with fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic plug doors, mobile charging sockets, and the facility to order food on board. The train promises a travel time of just 13 hours from Delhi to Srinagar, making it a faster and more convenient option for travelers.
Boost to Tourism and Economy
The inauguration of the Kashmir Vande Bharat Express is expected to significantly boost tourism, horticulture, industries, and education in the region. The all-weather rail link will eliminate the uncertainties of climate affecting the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, ensuring reliable and efficient travel year-round.
Inauguration of this train service is a testament to engineering prowess and commitment of India to enhancing connectivity across the nation. This new rail link is set to transform the travel experience to the Kashmir Valley, bringing it closer to the rest of the country.
Reaching Kashmir in Vande Bharat Train
If you want to travel in Vande Bharat to Kashmir from Delhi, you will have to take 2 different journeys. First, you need to take Delhi to Katra Vande Bharat then, from there you can book the Katra to Kashmir Vande Bharat Express.
Other than this, a new Delhi to Kashmir sleeper Vande Bharat Express will be inagurated soon, enhancing the connectivity of Kashmir to the capital of India.