JAMMU, April 30, 2026 : The launch of the direct Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar has sparked widespread enthusiasm across Jammu and Kashmir, with passengers, traders, and stakeholders calling it a transformative step for connectivity and growth.
Flagged off by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the 20-coach train now directly links Jammu Tawi with Srinagar, reducing travel time to under four hours and ensuring all-weather connectivity to the Valley.
🌄 Public Reaction: “A True Game Changer”
Passengers onboard the inaugural journey described the service as a major breakthrough:
- Arvind Singh (Travel Agent): Called it a “game changer” that will save time, cut costs, and boost tourism and trade.
- Bushan Chand (Trader): Highlighted easier and cheaper transportation of goods to Kashmir.
- Mustaq Ahmed (Govt Employee): Said same-day return travel between Jammu and Srinagar is now possible.
- Students & Pilgrims: Welcomed direct access from Jammu, eliminating the need to travel to Katra first.
🛕 Big Relief for Pilgrims & Tourists
Earlier, यात्रियों—especially those heading for the Amarnath Yatra—relied heavily on road transport, often disrupted by landslides, traffic jams, and harsh weather. The new rail service offers a safer, faster, and more reliable alternative.
📈 Economic & Tourism Boost
The direct rail link is expected to:
- Enhance tourism inflow
- Strengthen trade and logistics
- Improve daily commuting between the twin capitals
- Accelerate overall socioeconomic development
🛤️ A Milestone in Kashmir Rail Project
The extension builds on the milestone achieved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who inaugurated the Katra–Srinagar rail link on June 6, 2025.
Now extended to Jammu Tawi, the Vande Bharat Express marks another key achievement in the ₹43,780-crore railway project connecting Kashmir with the rest of India—a project that began in the late 1990s, with the first Valley train running in 2008.
Regular services for the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express will begin from May 2, offering a modern, efficient, and reliable travel experience.
