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Russia Today
7 days ago
- Business
- Russia Today
India just laid track through Kashmir – and the message is loud
On June 25, 60-year-old Muhammad Fakhrudin Bhat fulfilled a dream nearly four decades in the making: his first-ever train journey out of the Kashmir Valley to India's capital, New Delhi. As he boarded the newly inaugurated Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express – launched with great fanfare by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier that month – Bhat looked on in awe. The sleek, orange train glided gracefully through summer-kissed mountains, verdant valleys, blooming orchards, and dense pine forests, a moving panorama of Kashmir's natural beauty. 'It felt like something long dreamed and a visual treat to pass through the mountains and greenery, in a train,' Bhat said, recalling his maiden journey from Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir, to Katra, a town renowned as the base camp for the Vaishno Devi Temple, one of Hinduism's most revered shrines. What would typically take at least seven hours by road – often more in heavy traffic – was completed in just three hours. In Katra, passengers traveling to New Delhi have to pass security checks before boarding another train. The journey that took two days of road and rail travel from Delhi to Srinagar can now be completed in just 13 hours, which has brought joy to the faces of locals and visitors. For over four decades, Bhat had heard talk of connecting Srinagar to the rest of India by rail. The deadlines kept stretching for years. However, last month, he experienced it firsthand, traveling to Delhi to visit his daughter's family. 'It was exciting – a completely new experience,' he said, smiling. 'I booked my tickets 20 days in advance just to make sure I got a seat.' For Bhat, every glance outside the panoramic windows was a revelation. 'This was not just a ride, but a testament to hope arriving on the rails after forty years of waiting,' he said with a wide smile. 'This will transform tourism and trade in the region. The economy will witness a boost. Kashmiri apples, handicrafts, and other goods can now reach the main markets more swiftly and affordably, while all-weather connectivity will also help during harsh winter months when roads are often blocked,' said Masooma Jan, a resident who deals with the organic fruit new train route is a part of the 272km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link that connects Kashmir with the rest of India's railway network. The route involves 36 tunnels, totaling nearly 119km, and 943 bridges, passing through rugged, seismically active mountains with peaks exceeding 15,000 ft. The rail link is a $5.5 billion engineering marve; it also features the Chenab Bridge, which, according to Indian officials, is now the world's tallest: 359 meters above the riverbed, even taller than the Eiffel Tower. The journey of building railways to Kashmir began in 1892, long before India and Pakistan gained independence from British rule, when the Dogra Maharajas of Jammu and Kashmir, then a princely state, first envisioned a railway line reaching their isolated land. The present project was conceptualized by New Delhi in the mid-1990s but was delayed due to the region's political and security instability. The project gathered steam only in 2002, when the it was declared a national priority. The final leg of the rail link – between Katra and Sangaldan – was completed in early 2024, bringing trains to the valley via one of the world's most challenging terrains. The linking of the remote and mountainous Kashmir Valley to the rest of India by train marks one of the country's most extraordinary infrastructure achievements. The entire project proved to be a challenge for India's engineers and government due to the extreme Himalayan terrain and geological instability. 'At one point, this seemed impossible, but today it is a reality, and there is a lot of rush in bookings. The train journey is affordable and also makes the otherwise cumbersome road journey easy for locals as well as outsiders,' said Adeeba Ishtiyaq, a business management student from Kashmir who studies in Delhi. The scale of the engineering effort is staggering. 'This is a great relief for people who always felt cut off,' Adeeba said. A month after its launch, the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train is witnessing unprecedented demand. Railway officials told RT that tickets are sold out one month in advance. At the grand inauguration of the rail link, India's prime minister described the bridge and rail link as 'living symbols of India's strength.' He emphasized that this rail link fulfilled a multi-generational dream, recalling that current Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had been a schoolboy when the foundation stone was laid in 1983-84. Highlighting the Chenab Bridge specifically, Modi called it 'new India's resolve and pride' and said it removes the need for Kashmiris to travel abroad to see wonders like the Eiffel Tower. He also promised that the train would integrate the region – economically, culturally, and strategically – and pledged $5.5 billion worth of additional public projects in the Chenab Bridge at the heart of the new rail link was built with over 30,000 metric tons of steel; it is designed to withstand extreme weather, seismic activity, and even explosions. Dr. Madhavi G. Latha, who was one of the engineers who contributed to the construction of the bridge and has been involved in its work for the past seventeen years, said 'the bridge is a civil engineering marvel.' 'All glory of the planning, design, and construction goes to Indian Railways and AFCONS. Thousands of people have significantly contributed in different ways to the construction of this iconic bridge. There are millions of unsung heroes to whom I salute today. My role as a geotechnical consultant to AFCONS was to help in developing slope stabilization schemes and the design of foundations on slope,' she added. Propelling the vision of # Chenab Bridge is the world's highest railway arch bridge will give a boost to socio-economic development of the J&K region while improving its connectivity with other parts of #BemisaalBharat. The construction, which officially began in 1994-95, was not just delayed by technical challenges, but also geopolitical and environmental ones: landslides, earthquakes, heavy snowfall, political tension, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, Indian engineers pressed on with what has now become a flagship example of infrastructure in difficult terrain. During Kashmir's harsh winters, when the temperature falls below freezing, heavy snowfall frequently blocks the Jammu-Srinagar highway, cutting the region off from the rest of the country. The winter-proof Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat ensures reliable rail travel even in heavy snow. 'These custom-built trains come equipped with heated windshields, triple insulation, and winter-ready water systems, designed to operate in the region's sub-zero conditions,' said Mukhtar Ahmad, a civil engineer based in the region. He added that the arrival of the Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir has been a moment of pride for residents and engineers alike. The officials have noted that the rail link will also streamline troop movement. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah hailed the project and said that it is not just 'steel and concrete.' 'It is the realization of generations of aspirations and will be of immense benefit to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.' Local entrepreneurs are optimistic: shortcuts mean fresher products, new job markets, and expanded trade routes. The train ensures all-weather access, breaking through winter's chokehold.
Mint
02-07-2025
- Politics
- Mint
Kashmir Vande Bharat train needs better timing, more frequency and onboard Wi-Fi: Omar Abdullah to Ashwini Vaishnaw
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has requested Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to increase the number of coaches, frequency and reschedule the timings of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train that started operating last month. Advertisement The Chief Minister also sought to provide onboard internet connectivity for the train, the first rail service connecting Kashmir with mainland India. Increase in Number of Coaches The current coach configuration on the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is proving insufficient to cater to the growing passenger demand, especially during weekends, holidays, and the ongoing pilgrimage and tourism seasons, Abdullah said in the letter addressed to the Union Minister. 'Augmenting the train's capacity by adding one or more Chair Car and Executive Class coaches will go a long way in addressing this surge,' he said in the letter. Abdullah said he made the request based on the feedback from various stakeholders and commuters and his own experience after travelling by the train. Advertisement Modi Flagged Off Kashmir Vande Bharat Trains Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Vande Bharat Express train to Kashmir from Jammu on June 6, after the completion of the 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project. Modi flagged off the train services from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi(SMVD) railway station in Jammu's Katra to Srinagar, Kashmir. On the occasion, Modi also flagged off another train from Srinagar to Katra. Before the June 6 inauguration, trains operated between Banihal and Baramulla, north of Srinagar in the Kashmir valley, and between Jammu, Udhampur and Katra in the Jammu region. Increase Frequency Given the 'overwhelming' response and the strategic importance of this route, the Chief Minister requested the Union Minister to increase the frequency of the train. 'This would greatly benefit local commuters and tourists and help unlock the full potential of this vital corridor,' he said in the letter. Advertisement Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Train The Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir operates on two routes: Katra to Srinagar and Srinagar to Katra, with a total of four trips daily. Also Read | All you need to know about the Kashmir version of special Vande Bharat trains The first train (26401) departs Katra at 8:10 AM and arrives in Srinagar at 11:08 AM, while the return train (26402) leaves Srinagar at 2:00 PM and arrives in Katra at 4:48 PM. The second service (26403) departs Katra at 2:55 PM and reaches Srinagar at 5:53 PM, with the return train (26404) leaving Srinagar at 8:00 AM and arriving in Katra at 10:58 AM. Both services operate six days a week, with the Katra to Srinagar service not running on Tuesdays and the Srinagar to Katra service not running on Wednesdays. Advertisement Rescheduling of Timings Abdullah said, in the letter, that it has also been observed that the current departure and arrival timings are not optimal for the working population or for those intending to undertake day-trips for official, educational, medical, or pilgrimage-related purposes. 'In this regard, it is earnestly requested that the depafture from Katra be scheduled in the early morning hours, and the return journey from Srinagar be timed for the late evening. This would facilitate same day return travel and signiflcantly enhance commuter convenience,' the letter reads. High-speed onboard Wi-Fi In the last request, the CM pitched for an internet facility on board the train. In today's digital age, uninterrupted internet access has become a key expectation of passengers, especially on premium trains such as the Vande Bharat Express, the CM said. Advertisement Also Read | PM Modi interacts with students during Vande Bharat inauguration in J&K 'Provision of high-speed onboard Wi-Fi will greatly enhance the travel experience, allowing passengers to remain connected for work, communication, and entertainment during their journey especially in view of poor mobile connectivity in the long tunnels,' he said. Provision of high-speed onboard Wi-Fi will greatly enhance the travel experience. Abdullah said these measures will substantially improve passenger satisfaction, regional connectivity, and tourism promotion in Jammu and Kashmir. Key Takeaways Increased train capacity and frequency is essential to meet rising passenger demand. Timely rescheduling of train services can significantly benefit daily commuters. Onboard internet access is becoming a crucial expectation for modern train travel.
Mint
02-07-2025
- Politics
- Mint
Kashmir Vande Bharat needs better timing, more frequency and onboard Wi-Fi: Omar Abdullah to Ashwini Vaishnaw
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has requested Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to increase the number of coaches, frequency and reschedule the timings of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train that started operating last month. The Chief Minister also sought to provide onboard internet connectivity for the train, the first rail service connecting Kashmir with mainland India. The current coach configuration on the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is proving insufficient to cater to the growing passenger demand, especially during weekends, holidays, and the ongoing pilgrimage and tourism seasons, Abdullah said in the letter addressed to the Union Minister. 'Augmenting the train's capacity by adding one or more Chair Car and Executive Class coaches will go a long way in addressing this surge,' he said in the letter. Abdullah said he made the request based on the feedback from various stakeholders and commuters and his own experience after travelling by the train. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Vande Bharat Express train to Kashmir from Jammu on June 6, after the completion of the 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project. Modi flagged off the train services from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi(SMVD) railway station in Jammu's Katra to Srinagar, Kashmir. On the occasion, Modi also flagged off another train from Srinagar to Katra. Before the June 6 inauguration, trains operated between Banihal and Baramulla, north of Srinagar in the Kashmir valley, and between Jammu, Udhampur and Katra in the Jammu region. Given the 'overwhelming' response and the strategic importance of this route, the Chief Minister requested the Union Minister to increase the frequency of the train. 'This would greatly benefit local commuters and tourists and help unlock the full potential of this vital corridor,' he said in the letter. The Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir operates on two routes: Katra to Srinagar and Srinagar to Katra, with a total of four trips daily. The first train (26401) departs Katra at 8:10 AM and arrives in Srinagar at 11:08 AM, while the return train (26402) leaves Srinagar at 2:00 PM and arrives in Katra at 4:48 PM. The second service (26403) departs Katra at 2:55 PM and reaches Srinagar at 5:53 PM, with the return train (26404) leaving Srinagar at 8:00 AM and arriving in Katra at 10:58 AM. Both services operate six days a week, with the Katra to Srinagar service not running on Tuesdays and the Srinagar to Katra service not running on Wednesdays. Abdullah said, in the letter, that it has also been observed that the current departure and arrival timings are not optimal for the working population or for those intending to undertake day-trips for official, educational, medical, or pilgrimage-related purposes. 'In this regard, it is earnestly requested that the depafture from Katra be scheduled in the early morning hours, and the return journey from Srinagar be timed for the late evening. This would facilitate same day return travel and signiflcantly enhance commuter convenience,' the letter reads. In the last request, the CM pitched for an internet facility on board the train. In today's digital age, uninterrupted internet access has become a key expectation of passengers, especially on premium trains such as the Vande Bharat Express, the CM said. 'Provision of high-speed onboard Wi-Fi will greatly enhance the travel experience, allowing passengers to remain connected for work, communication, and entertainment during their journey especially in view of poor mobile connectivity in the long tunnels,' he said. Provision of high-speed onboard Wi-Fi will greatly enhance the travel experience. Abdullah said these measures will substantially improve passenger satisfaction, regional connectivity, and tourism promotion in Jammu and Kashmir.
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Business Standard
26-06-2025
- Business Standard
IRCTC to offer Kashmiri veg meals on Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train
Passengers traveling on the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express can soon savour authentic Kashmiri vegetarian cuisine on board. The premium semi-high-speed train, which was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, 2025, will introduce traditional Kashmiri dishes as part of its in-train catering service starting the second week of July. This initiative was confirmed by IRCTC's Additional General Manager Anand Kumar Jha in a conversation with PTI. The newly launched Vande Bharat Express between Katra and Srinagar is set to significantly cut down travel time between the two places by two to three hours. Adding to this convenience is the promise of a rich culinary experience featuring traditional Dogra and Kashmiri dishes prepared in vegetarian style. Kashmiri cuisine onboard Vande Bharat Express According to IRCTC officials, passengers on the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express will enjoy an assortment of regional delicacies. For breakfast, the train will serve ambal kaddu (a sweet-and-sour pumpkin dish from Dogra weddings), babru (a stuffed puri popular in the hilly regions), and the classic Jammu paratha. Lunchtime meals will feature Kashmiri dum aloo, Jammu rajma, and paneer chaman, offering a well-rounded taste of Jammu and Kashmir's rich vegetarian cuisine. For passengers preferring regular options, IRCTC will also serve popular Indian breakfast items such as poha, upma, and vegetarian cutlets. This move is expected to enhance the overall travel experience for tourists and pilgrims heading to Vaishno Devi and exploring Kashmir, making it not just a journey, but a taste of local culture. Katra to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express: Route, schedule & frequency The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express will run six days a week, excluding Wednesdays. Two trains will operate daily between the two cities via Banihal. The schedule is as follows: Departure from Srinagar: 8:00 AM Arrival at Banihal: 9:02 AM Arrival at Katra: 10:58 AM On the return journey: Departure from Katra: 2:55 PM Arrival at Srinagar: 5:53 PM This streamlined schedule is designed to offer better connectivity for locals, tourists, and pilgrims, while reducing travel time and improving comfort. Vande Bharat Express: Special features The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is fully electric and built to handle extreme cold, even as low as -20°C. Its front glass (windshield) has a heating feature that melts snow and clears fog, helping the driver see better. It also includes a special air-drying system and a 5 kVA transformer to keep things running smoothly. The train has air-conditioned coaches, automatic doors, CCTV cameras, and charging points for your phone—making the ride comfortable and modern. Even in freezing weather, a smart heating system keeps the train warm using a vacuum-based system. The washrooms are also designed to stay warm, so the water tanks and pipes don't freeze.
NDTV
17-06-2025
- NDTV
NDTV Ground Report: J&K Tourist Spots Reopen 2 Months After Pahalgam Attack
Srinagar: On April 22, Pakistani terrorists attacked a popular tourist site in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, hoping to deal a twin blow by making visitors believe the Union Territory is unsafe and hurting its economy, which is dependent on tourism. Two months later, it is clear that they failed. As many as 16 tourist sites were reopened in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday and many of them have already begun seeing an influx of tourists. Eight spots in the Kashmir Valley and an equal number in Jammu have been reopened, including the picturesque Betaab Valley, Verinag, Kokernag and the Mughal gardens in Achabal. NDTV visited the Betaab Valley - named after the film starring Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh which was shot there in the 1980s - and spoke to workers and tourists, who said they are happy that normalcy is being restored. "I work on the ticketing side. The park was shut all this while, and our work also took a hit. I am happy it is being reopened and tourists will be back," a worker said on Tuesday morning. A tourist from Haryana who was visiting the Betaab Valley said, "We came to Jammu and Kashmir about a week ago. Yes, this spot was shut, but we were exploring other places in the Union Territory, including Srinagar, Sonmarg and Gulmarg. This is our first visit to Jammu and Kashmir." NDTV also tried zipline cycling in the Betaab Valley, a sought-after activity which involves riding a specially designed bicycle along two cables suspended in the air. Restoring Confidence On Saturday, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had announced that the approximately four dozen sites that had been shut in the Union Territory after the Pahalgam terrorist attack would be reopened in a phased manner from Tuesday. The attack, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed, had hit the tourism sector in the Kashmir valley and impacted religious pilgrimage at the Ma Vaishno Devi temple in Jammu as well. Since then, the J&K government has been making efforts to revive tourism and restore the confidence of tourists. Last month, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held a cabinet meeting in Pahalgam and visited tourist places, including the Betaab Valley. The inauguration of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also provided a major boost to tourism by connecting Kashmir to the rest of the country via a railway link for the first time. Tickets are sold out for the next few days, with tourists queuing up for the opportunity to travel on the Chenab bridge, which is the highest railway bridge in the world.
