Another Vande Bharat for the Valley
Indian Railways is introducing a third Vande Bharat Express to connect Jammu Tawi and Srinagar. This move comes in response to immense demand, as the two existing Vande Bharat trains on this route have been operating with full occupancy since their launch.
The initial services began on June 6, 2025, running between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar, and were extended to Jammu Tawi on April 30, 2026, creating a direct link between the two capital cities. The new service, designated as train numbers 26407/26408, was confirmed by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and follows requests to increase capacity and include Udhampur as a key stopover. In fact, due to the high demand, the number of coaches on the existing trains was already increased from 16 to 20.
A Game-Changer for Connectivity
The Vande Bharat has already been hailed as a transformative lifeline for Jammu and Kashmir, drastically reducing travel time and bypassing the unpredictable Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, which is often prone to disruptions from landslides and weather. The train journey cuts the travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes for the 269-kilometre route. This all-weather connectivity provides a reliable and safer alternative for tourists, families, and business travellers. Furthermore, the Railway Ministry has approved increasing the maximum speed of trains on the Katra-Banihal section to 100 kmph, which will further reduce travel time and enhance passenger comfort. This improved connectivity is a key part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), an ambitious project featuring engineering marvels like the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world's highest railway bridge.
Boosting Tourism and the Local Economy
The impact on tourism has been immediate and significant. Hoteliers and tour operators report that the Vande Bharat service has directly contributed to a surge in tourist arrivals, with many visitors now extending their trips from pilgrimage sites like Shri Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra to the Kashmir Valley. The train itself has become a tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views of mountains and valleys through its large windows, making the journey part of the experience. This influx of visitors provides a major boost to the local economy, which relies heavily on tourism. The sector contributes around 7% to the Union Territory's GDP. With easier access, more families and first-time visitors are encouraged to explore Kashmir, filling hotels and creating demand for local goods and services.
More Than Just a Train
Beyond its economic impact, the enhanced rail link represents a deeper integration of the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country. For residents, it means more reliable access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities in Jammu and beyond. For businesses, it allows for the efficient transport of local products like fruits and dairy to larger markets. The introduction of a third train reflects a commitment to strengthening this connection and addressing the aspirations of the local population. The service has been described as an 'emotional relief' for families divided between the two regions, making travel shorter and less demanding. It stands as a symbol of development and stability, changing perceptions about travel to the region and instilling confidence among both tourists and locals.
