Vande Bharat Train Trial Runs Conducted on Katra-Sangaldan Link of Jammu-Kashmir
Trial runs of the Vande Bharat train on the Katra-Sangaldan stretch were successfully conducted today, marking a significant step towards enhancing rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the final section of the Katra-Sangaldan link on April 19 as part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a 272-km initiative. This stretch includes the iconic Chenab Railway Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, which will provide direct rail connectivity between New Delhi and Kashmir via Katra.
A resident of Bakkal village, located near the bridge, expressed his excitement: “This bridge is in our vicinity. On April 19, PM Modi will inaugurate it. We are so happy; everyone in the village is thrilled. The construction of this bridge has created numerous employment opportunities, and even after the inauguration, we expect continued job prospects.”
Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of Information & Publicity at the Railway Board, emphasized the importance of the USBRL project during his visit on April 10. He noted that the 272-kilometre rail link includes a 119-kilometre tunnel and will significantly enhance connectivity, tourism, and religious significance for the Kashmir region.
“It has been the dream of every Indian to have a train running to Kashmir. After extensive preparations, this USBRL section is now ready. This area is crucial for the religious, tourism, and connectivity aspects of Kashmir,” Kumar said.
He also revealed that two Vande Bharat Express trains will begin service on the inauguration day—one from Srinagar and the other from Katra to Srinagar.
Earlier, on January 23, Indian Railways conducted the trial run of the first Vande Bharat train from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) railway station to Srinagar. The train will pass through the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, and the Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world. Designed specifically for the cold climate of the Kashmir valley, the Vande Bharat train is set to enhance travel experiences in the region.
