Travel from Katra to Srinagar is all set to become easier now. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Vande Bharat Express connecting Katra to Srinagar, which marked a significant milestone in India's railway infrastructure.
This launch coincided with the completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL), a 272-km project that now provides all-weather rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley.As per the reports, these newly introduced Vande Bharat trains, numbered 26401/02 and 26403/04, will be operating six days a week, and will reduce the travel time between Katra and Srinagar to just under three hours. Also, these trains have been designed in such a manner that they are all equipped to handle the region's challenging winter conditions, featuring winter-proof technology to ensure uninterrupted service throughout the year.Read more: 8 underrated tiger reserves in India that will surprise youThe Chenab Bridge, which is already known as the highest railway arch bridge in the world, is a showpiece of the USBRL project. Extending 1,315 meters in length and rising 359 meters above the Chenab River, this engineering wonder is taller than the Eiffel Tower. The bridge is intended to last for 120 years and was built to endure severe weather conditions and wind speeds of up to 260 km/h.
The Anji Khad Bridge, India's first cable-stayed railway bridge, is part of the USBRL project, which also has 943 bridges and 36 tunnels that will improve regional connectivity.
Read more: 8 incredibly scenic visa-free island nations for Indian travellersThe introduction of the Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir is expected to boost tourism and economic development by providing faster and more reliable transportation. Reports add that the train services on the said route are all set to commence regular operations from June 7, 2025, which will further integrate the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India. This development signifies a transformative step in connecting Kashmir to the broader Indian railway network, promising enhanced accessibility and growth for the region.
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