PM Modi Flags Off First-Ever Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, Boosting Rail Connectivity in Jammu & Kashmir
Katra, June 6: In a historic development for Jammu and Kashmir’s transportation network, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off the much-anticipated Vande Bharat Express between Katra and Srinagar. This marks the launch of the first-ever direct train service connecting the Jammu region with the Kashmir Valley, a significant milestone in the region’s infrastructural progress.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Katra railway station in the presence of several prominent dignitaries, including Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Their presence underscored the importance of this development for the socio-economic integration of the region.
The newly launched Vande Bharat Express is expected to provide a fast, safe, and comfortable mode of travel for passengers. Operated by Northern Railway, the train will offer two classes of seating — Chair Car (CC) and Executive Class (EC). The ticket fare has been set at Rs 715 for the Chair Car and Rs 1,320 for the more luxurious Executive Class.
This high-speed rail link is seen as a major step towards enhancing connectivity, boosting tourism, and facilitating economic development in Jammu and Kashmir, bringing the valley closer to the rest of the country like never before.
