20-Coach Vande Bharat Express to Run Direct Between Jammu and Srinagar From March 1

Delhi: Rail travel in Jammu and Kashmir is set for a major upgrade as a 20-coach Vande Bharat Express will begin direct operations between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar from March 1.The train numbered 26401 will depart from Jammu Tawi at 6:15 am and is scheduled to reach Srinagar at 11:10 am. On the return journey, train number 26402 will leave Srinagar at 2:00 pm and arrive at Jammu Tawi at 6:50 pm.The premium service, which was earlier operating between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar, is now being extended to connect the twin capital cities directly.

Railway officials say the move will significantly improve convenience for daily commuters, tourists and business travellers.

Route Boost After Major Rail Project

The service expansion comes after the completion of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), a landmark infrastructure project that has ensured all-weather rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley. The Vande Bharat service was earlier flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of this connectivity push.

With the extension to Jammu, passengers will now enjoy seamless direct travel without changing trains at Katra.

From 8 Coaches to 20 Coaches

Until now, the service between Katra and Srinagar operated with an 8-coach rake. From March 1, it will run with a full 20-coach configuration, increasing passenger capacity significantly.

Officials say the existing single pair of trains on the section carries nearly 1,400 passengers daily. In its first six months of operation, the service between Katra and Srinagar recorded approximately 3.75 lakh passengers across two train pairs.

Jammu Railway Division Expanding Operations

The Jammu Railway Division, inaugurated in January 2025, has also expanded freight services in the region. Goods sheds have been established to handle commercial cargo, defence equipment and agricultural produce.

Under the Jammu–Pathankot–Punjab rail corridor scheme launched in September, more than 20,000 tonnes of apples have been transported from Kashmir, boosting horticulture logistics. The Anantnag goods shed has emerged as a major cargo hub, handling cement, food grains, automobiles and other commodities.

For the first time, military trains carrying heavy equipment have also been operated into the Valley, strengthening strategic mobility.

Public Reaction Positive

Residents of Jammu and Srinagar have welcomed the decision, saying the direct Vande Bharat link will reduce travel time and improve connectivity between the two key cities. The new 20-coach service is expected to meet growing passenger demand while offering a faster and more comfortable journey.