Direct Kashmir-to-India Train Connectivity Soon: Northern Railways Eyes Next Milestone After Vande Bharat Launch
REASI/JAMMU, OCT 29 (Times of Kashmir | PTI): The Northern Railways is gearing up for another historic achievement — direct train connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of India, an official confirmed on Tuesday. The move comes months after the successful launch of twin Vande Bharat trains on the Srinagar–Katra route, marking the completion of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla rail link in June 2025.
Speaking to PTI, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM) of Jammu Division, Uchit Singhal, said that the department is actively addressing operational and security-related challenges to achieve this next milestone in Jammu and Kashmir’s rail infrastructure.
“The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, marked a historic milestone as the first rail service connecting Kashmir with Kanyakumari. The work is now progressing smoothly to ensure direct connectivity between Kashmir and other parts of the country,” Singhal said.
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New Stop at Reasi Station Introduced
Starting Thursday, the Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat Express (Train Nos. 26401 and 26402) will include a two-minute halt at Reasi railway station.
As per the schedule:
- Train No. 26401 will depart from Katra at 8:10 AM and reach Reasi at 8:28 AM before continuing to Srinagar.
- Train No. 26402 will make its return halt at Reasi at 4:34 PM.
Singhal explained that the Reasi stoppage has been introduced on an experimental basis for one month, subject to passenger feedback and commercial viability.
“Reasi station serves as the district headquarters and holds significant importance. The decision to introduce a stoppage here was made following persistent local and political demand,” he said.
Previously, the Banihal station was the only stop between Katra and Srinagar, primarily functioning as a trans-shipment point.
Boost for Pilgrimage and Tourism
Officials said that adding Reasi as a stopover will enhance tourist and pilgrim convenience, especially for visitors heading to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, the Chenab Rail Bridge, and the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
“This will improve accessibility for pilgrims and tourists while supporting local economic activity,” said Singhal.
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Railways’ Continued Commitment to Connectivity
The Northern Railways has been taking proactive steps to ensure uninterrupted connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. During August–September, when road traffic was disrupted due to heavy rains, the department introduced special train services between Katra and Banihal to ensure smooth travel for passengers.
Officials emphasized that the Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat Express has received widespread appreciation for its speed, comfort, and reliability, symbolizing a new era of modern travel for the Union Territory.
Local Leaders Welcome the Decision
Senior BJP leader and MLA Reasi, Kuldeep Raj Dubey, who boarded the Vande Bharat train to Srinagar after flagging it off at Reasi station, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for fulfilling a long-standing public demand.
BJP District President Rohit Dubey also welcomed the decision, expressing hope that the railway ministry would soon approve a dedicated Reasi tourist train connecting the Chenab Bridge and the Anji Bridge, two of India’s most iconic railway structures.
“Such connectivity will not only boost tourism but also generate employment opportunities in the region,” he added.
A Step Toward Nationwide Integration
The expansion of railway services in Jammu and Kashmir is seen as a symbol of integration, progress, and development. The government’s focus on expanding connectivity — through rail, road, and air — aims to transform J&K into a hub of economic and tourist activity.
The direct Kashmir-to-India rail link, once operational, will mark one of the most significant infrastructural milestones in the region’s history, connecting the Valley seamlessly to the national rail grid.
For more news on Jammu and Kashmir’s infrastructure and transportation projects, visit Times of Kashmir – Development Section.
Source: Press Trust of India (PTI)
Tags: Vande Bharat Express J&K, Kashmir rail connectivity, Katra–Srinagar train, Reasi railway station, Northern Railways, Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla link, Jammu Kashmir railway news, Chenab Bridge, Anji Bridge