Meeting Overwhelming Demand
The decision to launch a third Vande Bharat train comes in response to immense passenger demand on the Jammu-Srinagar corridor. The first two Vande Bharat services on this route, which became fully operational between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar from April
30, 2026, have been running with full occupancy since their launch. Initially introduced between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar in June 2025, their extension to Jammu created a seamless, direct link that proved immensely popular. To cope with the high demand, Indian Railways had already increased the number of coaches on the existing trains from 16 to 20. The introduction of a third train is a clear indicator of the route's success and the need for even greater capacity.
The New Service Explained
The new service will operate as Train numbers 26407/26408 Jammu Tawi-Srinagar-Jammu Tawi Vande Bharat Express. The approval for this service was confirmed in a letter from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, which was shared by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. A key highlight of this new service is the inclusion of a stop at Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan station in Udhampur, a move made in response to strong public demand from the local population. While a final launch date has not yet been announced, the approval marks a concrete step towards its implementation. The existing Vande Bharat trains cover the 269-kilometre distance in approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, a significant time-saving compared to the seven to ten-hour journey by road.
A Journey Through an Engineering Marvel
Travelling on the Vande Bharat to Srinagar is more than just a commute; it's a journey across one of India's most ambitious infrastructure projects, the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). This 272-km railway line navigates the treacherous Himalayan terrain with numerous tunnels and bridges. Passengers will travel over the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge, the world's highest railway bridge, which stands 359 metres above the riverbed. The route also features India's first cable-stayed railway bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge. Recently, the permissible speed on the Katra-Banihal section was increased to 100 kmph, further enhancing the efficiency and speed of the journey across these engineering wonders.
What to Expect Onboard
The Vande Bharat Express is known for its modern amenities and passenger comfort. The trains on the Kashmir route are specially designed to handle the region's cold climate, with advanced heating systems to prevent freezing and ensure passenger comfort even in sub-zero temperatures. The driver's cabin is fitted with heating elements to defrost the windshield, ensuring clear visibility. Passengers can expect airline-style seating, with AC Chair Car and Executive Chair Car classes available. Executive class features wider, rotatable seats. Onboard catering, large windows for panoramic views, Wi-Fi, and mobile charging sockets are standard features, ensuring a comfortable and connected travel experience.
Transforming Regional Connectivity
The expansion of Vande Bharat services is a game-changer for Jammu and Kashmir. For decades, the region was dependent on the often-unreliable Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), which is prone to closures from landslides and heavy snowfall. The USBRL project provides a reliable, all-weather alternative, which is set to significantly boost tourism and the local economy. The easier and faster movement of people and goods, including essentials like fuel which recently had its first successful trial run by freight train, promises greater economic integration and stability for the valley. This enhanced connectivity offers a predictable and safe travel option for tourists, pilgrims, and residents alike, fundamentally changing how the Kashmir Valley connects with the rest of the country.
