Winter-ready Vande Bharat Express unveiled for Katra-Srinagar route: Key details inside

Unveiling the Winter-Ready Vande Bharat Express for the Katra-Srinagar Route (Video grab: X/@AshwiniVaishnaw)

India’s Railways is set to redefine travel in Jammu and Kashmir with the introduction of a specially designed Vande Bharat Express for the Katra-Srinagar route. The train is tailored to tackle the region’s harsh winter conditions while delivering a world-class travel experience.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared an exclusive video showcasing the Vande Bharat Express, offering a glimpse of its innovative features. The video highlights how this train is designed to provide uninterrupted service in sub-zero temperatures, ensuring seamless connectivity between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley.

Vande Bharat train for Jammu to Kashmir! pic.twitter.com/qvwuWAfhLd
Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) January 11, 2025

In his statement accompanying the video, Railway Minister Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of this service. He highlighted how the train, with its advanced features, symbolizes India's determination to overcome geographical and climatic challenges to deliver uninterrupted services.

Built for Winter: Features That Set It Apart
Traveling through the snowy terrains of Jammu and Kashmir demands more than just modern amenities—it requires resilience. The Vande Bharat Express rises to the challenge with cutting-edge, climate-specific upgrades:

1. Advanced Heating Systems: These prevent freezing in water and bio-toilet tanks.
2. Silicon Heating Pads: Equipped with overheat protection sensors for safe operation.
3. Heated Plumbing Lines: Self-regulating heating cables ensure water flows smoothly even in freezing conditions.
4. Auto-Draining Mechanism: Prevents water from freezing while the train is stationary.
5. Warm Air Systems: Special heaters in lavatories and vacuum systems enhance passenger comfort.
6. Air Brake System Heating: Maintains optimal braking performance in sub-zero temperatures.

Luxury Meets Durability
Like its counterparts, this Vande Bharat Express boasts modern amenities, including fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic plug doors, and mobile charging points. However, it stands out with its focus on reliability and comfort, even in extreme winter weather.

A Journey Through Engineering Marvels
The train will soon run on the 111 km Katra-Banihal section, part of the monumental Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. This route is an engineering feat, with its stunning bridges and tunnels:

*Chenab Bridge: The world’s highest railway arch bridge, soaring 359 m above the riverbed.
*Anji Khad Bridge: India’s first cable-stay railway bridge, featuring a 193 m tall pylon.
*Tunnels Galore: Nearly 97 km of the route traverses 25 tunnels, reflecting the region’s challenging terrain.

Speed, Comfort, and Connectivity
The eight-coach train will cover the Katra-Srinagar journey in just three hours and ten minutes, offering a blend of speed and comfort. Recent speed trials saw the train clocking up to 110 kmph, a testament to its efficiency.

Paving the Way for New Horizons
The Katra-Banihal section, currently undergoing its final inspection by the Commissioner of Railway Safety, is the last stretch needed to complete the USBRL project. Once operational, this route will finally link the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India by rail, ending a long wait for seamless connectivity.

Stations on the Route
The line will feature seven stations, each uniquely built to accommodate the rugged terrain:

*In Ramban District: Khari, Sumber, Sangaldan.*In Reasi District: Sawalkote, Dugga, Bakkal, Reasi.
Some of these stations are partially constructed inside tunnels or on bridges, adding to the marvel of this route.

With inspections underway, the train is expected to commence operations later this year. As part of the revamped Jammu railway station—now equipped with eight modern platforms—the new service promises to redefine travel between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley.

The USBRL Project: A Historic Feat
Spanning 272 km, the USBRL project includes the electrified Katra-Banihal section and is hailed as a triumph of engineering. Its tunnels, bridges, and snow-proof design stand as a testament to India’s ambition to connect even the most remote regions.

(With inputs from agencies)