Vande Bharat Express: Bridging Jammu and Kashmir by Rail

Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw marked a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmir as the first direct Vande Bharat Express train journeyed from Jammu into the Kashmir Valley. The minister outlined future aspirations to connect remote districts such as Poonch and Uri to the national rail grid, heralding a new era of connectivity.

The new service between Jammu and Srinagar symbolizes a leap forward in regional transport, slashing travel times and spurring tourism. Originally linking Katra to Srinagar, the service, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2025, now extends to Jammu Tawi Railway Station, fulfilling a decades-long dream.

This comprehensive project makes the Vande Bharat Express a lifeline for the region, as it accommodates freight such as cement and vehicles, and bridges major economic gaps. Amid applause from local leaders like Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, calls for further infrastructure such as a dry port in the region prompt hope for continued economic progress.

(With inputs from agencies.)