The first direct Vande Bharat Express train between Jammu and Srinagar has officially begun its commercial operations, marking a significant advancement in the region’s rail connectivity. The semi-high-speed train, a symbol of modern Indian engineering and the ‘Make in India‘ initiative, commenced its service on Saturday, two days after its inauguration by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. This new service promises to drastically reduce travel time between the two major cities of Jammu and Kashmir, transforming the journey from a lengthy road trip into a swift rail passage.
Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that the Vande Bharat Express, configured with 20 coaches, will operate six days a week, with Tuesdays designated as a non-operational day. The primary benefit of this new service is the substantial reduction in travel time, bringing the journey between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar down to less than five hours. Previously, the train’s route extended from Srinagar to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra; its expansion to include Jammu Tawi signifies a crucial step in integrating the entire region more effectively through rail infrastructure. The train departed from Jammu railway station, adorned with flowers, on platform number 7, signaling a new chapter in the area’s transportation landscape, as noted by Uchit Singhal, senior manager of the Jammu Division. Singhal described the commencement of the Vande Bharat train service from Jammu to Srinagar as the dawn of a new era, a monumental triumph for modern rail travel and the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The Vande Bharat Express will traverse a distance of approximately 272 kilometers between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar in a remarkably short span of 4 hours and 50 minutes. This contrasts sharply with the road journey, which could take anywhere from 12 to 24 hours, heavily dependent on prevailing road conditions. Officials have indicated that two pairs of trains will operate daily on this route, providing ample travel options for a diverse range of passengers, including tourists and pilgrims who visit the region from across the country. The schedule outlines that the first train departs from Jammu Tawi at 6:20 am, arriving in Srinagar at 11:10 am. Its journey includes scheduled halts at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi, and Banihal, allowing for passenger access at these key locations. The return journey commences from Srinagar at 2:00 pm, with the train reaching Jammu Tawi by 6:50 pm.
The inaugural commercial run saw a substantial number of passengers aboard. The first train from Jammu to Srinagar carried approximately 940 passengers, while the second train had close to 995 passengers. On the return leg from Srinagar to Jammu, the trains collectively transported over 1,990 passengers, who reportedly expressed great satisfaction with their travel experience. Passengers alighting in Jammu described the new service as a “dream come true” and a “game-changer” for the region. One passenger from Banihal highlighted the dual benefits of time savings and the elimination of the uncertainties inherent in highway travel. He further commented on the journey’s affordability, with fares around Rs 600, and its comfort, making it particularly advantageous for the tourism sector.
Sunita Sharma from Jammu characterized the initiative as a major achievement for both regions, stating, “It is like a dream come true for Kashmiris, and a big milestone for Jammu. It will strengthen connectivity between the two regions.” Murtaza Sharief from Akhnoor emphasized the convenience of same-day travel, a concept previously unimaginable for many. “We never imagined that one could travel in the morning and return by evening. This will benefit all sections of people,” he remarked. Shishir Rajan, a resident of Kathua, pointed out the improved accessibility provided by the train service, especially considering the frequent closures of national highways. “Now travel is faster, smoother and more comfortable,” he added. Arvind Singh, a tourist from Amritsar, conveyed a sense of enhanced safety with the new train service and credited the government for its efforts in strengthening rail connectivity in Kashmir, viewing it as a reflection of “changing India.”
The operational readiness of the Vande Bharat Express is attributed to its advanced technological features. The pilot of the inaugural train confirmed that it is equipped with the latest and most sophisticated technology available in India. The successful launch of this service follows decades of persistent engineering efforts and the overcoming of numerous challenges encountered during the construction of the Udhampur-Baramulla rail link. Officials have stated that despite the significant hurdles faced during the project’s execution, the service is now poised to operate smoothly, heralding a new era of enhanced rail connectivity for Jammu and Kashmir.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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