JAMMU, October 17, 2026 : The Ministry of Railways has approved the extension of the Sabarmati BG–Jammu Tawi Express to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, providing an additional rail connection for pilgrims and passengers travelling to the Jammu region.
According to a Northern Railway Jammu Division spokesperson, the extended service will commence from Sabarmati on October 18, 2026, while the return service from Katra will begin on October 20, 2026.
Three New Railway Halts in Jammu Region
Along with the extension, Railways has approved three additional stoppages at:
- Samba
- Bari Brahmana
- Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Railway Station
The new halts are expected to improve rail connectivity for local residents, students, traders, industrial workers and military personnel. Passengers connected with the Bari Brahmana industrial area are also expected to benefit from the additional stoppage.
More Convenient Travel for Vaishno Devi Pilgrims
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra serves as the base camp for pilgrims visiting the revered shrine. Extending the train to Katra will provide another travel option for passengers coming from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab, as well as other locations along the route.
The daily service will connect Katra with Sabarmati and several important stations, including Bathinda, Firozpur, Jalandhar and Pathankot.
The extension is expected to facilitate passenger movement, support religious tourism and improve access to important commercial and industrial centres across the region.
Train Timings Announced
As per the schedule provided by the railway authorities:
Sabarmati to Katra — Train No. 19223
- Departure from Sabarmati: 10:25 AM
- Arrival at Jammu Tawi: 3:35 PM on the second day
- Arrival at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra: 6:55 PM
Katra to Sabarmati — Train No. 19224
- Departure from Katra: 4:50 AM
- Arrival at Jammu Tawi: 7:40 AM
The extension and additional stoppages mark a further step towards strengthening railway connectivity in the Jammu region, with potential benefits for pilgrimage travel, local mobility and regional economic activity.
Passengers should check the latest official railway timetable and reservation information before travelling.
