Srinagar, June 10, 2025 – National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah hailed the newly launched Vande Bharat Express from Nowgam Railway Station in Srinagar to Katra as a transformative step for Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism and trade. Speaking to reporters during his journey on the high-speed train on Tuesday, Abdullah described it as “a huge blessing” for the region, emphasizing its potential to connect local products to major markets like Kanniyakumari, Patna, Kolkata, and Mumbai.
The Vande Bharat Express, part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, covers the 190-km Srinagar-Katra route in just three hours, significantly reducing travel time compared to road journeys. Flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, 2025, the train navigates iconic infrastructure like the Chenab Bridge—the world’s highest railway arch bridge—and the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge. With key stops at Reasi, Sangaldan, Banihal, Qazigund, Anantnag, and Avantipora, the train operates six days a week, departing Katra at 8:10 AM and Srinagar at 12:45 PM, with ticket prices ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 for AC coaches.
Abdullah highlighted the train’s role in boosting connectivity, stating, “This train will increase not just our tourism but trade as well. Our products will reach Kanniyakumari, Patna, Kolkata, Mumbai, which will benefit us a lot.” He emphasized its impact on the horticulture sector, enabling faster transport of Kashmiri produce like apples and handicrafts to national markets. “The road between Srinagar and Jammu often closes, and airfares are prohibitively high. This train offers a reliable and affordable alternative,” he added, noting its benefits for both locals and tourists visiting destinations like the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra.
The launch aligns with efforts to enhance Jammu & Kashmir’s economic growth and tourism recovery, especially amid challenges like recent terror threats affecting the Amarnath Yatra. The train’s advanced features, including heating systems for Kashmir’s winter conditions, ensure operational efficiency. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha have supported the initiative, with the latter emphasizing its role in fostering regional development.
The Vande Bharat Express is expected to drive tourism by making Kashmir and Jammu more accessible, while also facilitating trade by connecting local businesses to broader markets. As J&K navigates its path toward peace and prosperity, this rail link stands as a symbol of progress and connectivity.
