The picturesque landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir are set to welcome a new chapter in connectivity and development. On April 19, 2025 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the first Vande Bharat Express train service from Katra to Baramulla marking a significant milestone in the regions transportation history.
Bridging Distances: The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link
The inauguration of this train service signifies the completion of the ambitious 272 kilometer Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project. Initiated in 1997 this project faced numerous challenges due to the regions complex geological and climatic conditions. The route encompasses 38 tunnels spanning 119 kilometers with Tunnel T-49 being the longest at 12.75 kilometers making it the countrys longest transportation tunnel. Additionally the project includes 927 bridges covering a total of 13 kilometers.
Engineering Marvel: The Chenab Bridge
A highlight of this rail link is the iconic Chenab Bridge. Stretching 1315 meters with an arch span of 467 meters it stands 359 meters above the riverbed—35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower—earning it the title of the worlds highest arch railway bridge.
Modern Travel: The Vande Bharat Express
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express on this route promises to revolutionize travel between Jammu and Srinagar. Known for its speed and comfort the train is expected to significantly reduce travel time offering passengers a modern and efficient mode of transportation. Successful trial runs have been conducted on the Katra-Baramulla route and the service received approval from the Commissioner of Railway Safety in January 2025.
Inauguration Details
Prime Minister Modi’s itinerary on April 19 includes a visit to the worlds highest railway bridge over the Chenab River in Reasi district. Following this he will proceed to Katra to flag off the Vande Bharat train service. The event will be attended by key dignitaries including Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
A New Era for Kashmir
The commencement of this train service fulfills a long standing aspiration for direct rail connectivity to Kashmir. Train services operate only between Sangaldan and Baramulla in the Valle with long distance trains terminating at Katra. The new service will bridge this crucial gap allowing passengers to travel seamlessly to and from Kashmir thereby enhancing regional connectivity and boosting economic activities.
Initially the Vande Bharat Express will operate between Katra and Baramulla. Plans are underway to extend the service to originate from Jammu once the station’s expansion is completed anticipated by July August 2025. This phased approach ensures that infrastructural developments keep pace with the growing transportation needs of the region.
The launch of the Vande Bharat Express in Jammu and Kashmir is more than just a transportation upgrade it symbolizes progress, unity and the promise of a brighter future for the region. As the train chugs along the newly laid tracks it carries with it the hopes and aspirations of countless individuals eager to witness a more connected and prosperous Kashmir.