JAMMU: The Railways Department has announced plans to extend the Vande Bharat Express, currently operating between Katra and Srinagar, to originate from Jammu.
Confirming the development, Divisional Railway Manager Jammu, Vivek Kumar, said preparations are in full swing to facilitate the expansion of the semi-high-speed service. He noted that the extension plan was delayed due to widespread damage to railway tracks caused by recent floods and incessant rains.
“We are working on it. The delay occurred because of massive damage to tracks due to floods and heavy rains. But sooner or later, this service will be available to the people of Jammu,” Kumar told reporters, adding that restoration work is progressing rapidly and the service will be launched once safety clearances are obtained.
Introduced earlier this year, the Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat service has significantly reduced travel time between the Valley and the base camp of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. The planned extension to Jammu is expected to further enhance regional connectivity, benefitting commuters, pilgrims, and tourists alike.
Once operational, officials said, the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat is expected to run daily, offering improved travel comfort and reduced journey time compared to existing rail and road services.
