Wed Feb 12 14:15:49 UTC 2025: ## Vande Bharat Express to Connect Kashmir Valley to Rest of India by February

**Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir –** The Kashmir Valley is on the cusp of enhanced connectivity with the rest of India, as the Vande Bharat Express is set to commence operations between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar railway stations in February. While an official launch date hasn’t been confirmed, several news outlets report an inauguration on February 17th by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, coinciding with the launch of the Sangaldan-Riyasi track.

The high-speed train, which recently underwent successful trial runs, will traverse the world’s highest rail bridge, the Chenab bridge, significantly reducing travel time between Jammu and Srinagar. Estimated ticket prices range from ₹1,500-₹1,600 for AC Chair Car and ₹2,200-₹2,500 for Executive Chair Car, though these are subject to official confirmation.

The Vande Bharat will operate on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), stopping at key stations including Katra, Udhampur, Banihal, Qazigund, Anantnag, and Awantipora. Proposed timings indicate an 8:10 AM departure from Katra, arriving in Srinagar at 11:20 AM, with a return journey leaving Srinagar at 8:55 AM and arriving in Katra at 12:05 PM.

The train boasts a range of advanced features designed for comfort and safety, including the KAVACH anti-collision system, automatic plug doors, ergonomic seating, mobile charging points, and a mini-pantry. Specifically engineered for extreme cold, the train can operate in temperatures as low as -20° Celsius, with freeze-proof bio-toilets. The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express marks a significant milestone in improving connectivity and accessibility to the Kashmir Valley.

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