Railways Set For Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Train | Features, Travel Time, Stoppages, Ticket Price

The Indian Railways has unveiled a specially designed Vande Bharat Express train tailored for Jammu and Kashmir's challenging winter conditions. This state-of-the-art train, set to operate on the Katra-Srinagar route, boasts several enhancements over existing Vande Bharat models. Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of Information & Publicity, Railway Board, highlighted the advanced safety features, including snow-resistant operations, heated loco-pilot cabins, and anti-freezing systems for water. "The train ensures seamless travel even during snowfall, with heaters to keep coaches warm and specialized designs to prevent freezing water systems," he stated. AK Chandra, Principal Chief Mechanical Engineer, Northern Railways, emphasized the train's cold-weather adaptability, revealing features like 900kW heating elements for water tanks and pipelines, silicone heating pads, and a specially crafted windshield to resist icing. The train service, which will pass over the world’s highest Chenab Rail Bridge, is expected to commence after January 20, 2025.Reports indicate that the Katra-Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express will halt at all major stations along the route, including Banihal and Qazigund. While ticket prices have not been finalized, it is anticipated that fares for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar journey may range between ₹1500-₹1600 for AC Chair Car and ₹2200-₹2500 for Executive Chair Car. Notably, the train will not operate under a dynamic fare structure. The Vande Bharat Express is expected to depart from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) at 08:10 hrs, reaching Srinagar at 11:20 hrs. For the return journey, the train will leave Srinagar at 12:45 hrs and arrive at SVDK by 15:55 hrs. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity, support the local economy, and ensure year-round seamless travel in the region.