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Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express flagged off; rakes increased to 20
The extended Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express was flagged off from Jammu Tawi, with rakes increased to 20 from eight to meet demand. Regular service to Jammu-Srinagar is planned to begin on May 2, and two train pairs will operate on the 266-km corridor, boosting regional connectivity and freight movement.
Why It Matters
This expansion strengthens rail connectivity between the two capitals, supports regional tourism and pilgrimage travel, and facilitates faster movement of goods into and out of Kashmir, with potential positive effects on local economies.
Timeline
5 Events
Two pairs of Vande Bharat services for the 266-km corridor
April 30, 2026
Two pairs of services will operate across the 266-km Jammu–Srinagar corridor: 26401/26402 (Jammu Tawi to Srinagar 6:20 am–11:10 am; return 2:00 pm) six days a week, and 26404/26403 (Srinagar to Jammu 8:00 am–12:40 pm; return 1:20 pm–6:00 pm) daily except Wednesday.
Vaishnaw inspects Anji and Chenab bridges in Reasi district
April 30, 2026
Following the ceremony, Vaishnaw inspected the Anji and Chenab bridges in Reasi district.
Regular Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat service to commence
April 30, 2026
Regular service between Jammu and Srinagar is scheduled to commence on May 2, 2026.
Flag-off of extended Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express from Jammu Tawi
April 30, 2026
Union minister Ashwini Vaishnaw flagged off the extended Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express from Jammu Tawi, extending the service to Jammu. Rakes increased to 20 from eight due to high demand.
PM Modi inaugurates USBRL project and Katra-Srinagar rail service
2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the USBRL project and introduced the Katra-to-Srinagar rail service last year.