Srinagar: In a landmark moment for Jammu and Kashmir, the twin capitals — Jammu and Srinagar — were directly connected by a train service for the first time in the history of independent India on Thursday.
The historic Vande Bharat Express, flagged off by Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, marked a major milestone achieved under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Although the service had been inaugurated earlier by the Prime Minister on June 6, 2025, it remained limited to the Katra–Srinagar corridor for several months. With Thursday’s development, the full 272-kilometre Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link — a ₹44,000-crore նախագ project built over 25 years — is now operational, linking Jammu directly with Srinagar for the first time.
Officials told that this marks the beginning of a reliable, all-weather transport link connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, overcoming long-standing disruptions caused by weather-related closures of the Jammu-Srinagar highway and air routes.
“This is a historic achievement under PM Modi’s leadership, ensuring the Valley’s physical integration with the national railway network,” a senior official said.
Regular train services are scheduled to begin from May 2. The first pair of trains (No. 26401/26402) will run six days a week, except Tuesdays, completing the journey in approximately four hours and 50 minutes. A second pair (No. 26403/26404) will operate six days a week, except Wednesdays.
In view of the expected passenger demand, the Jammu–Srinagar service has been upgraded to 20 coaches — a first for the route — compared to the earlier eight-coach configuration operating between Katra and Srinagar.
Authorities are also working on further extending the service from Budgam to Jammu and eventually from Baramulla to New Delhi. Officials added that travel time is likely to be reduced to nearly four hours in the near future, further enhancing connectivity in the region.
Passengers on the inaugural run welcomed the development, describing it as a “gift” and a major relief, especially during emergencies and adverse weather conditions.
“We are very thankful to Modi ji for this train. Earlier, we faced many difficulties during travel,” said a passenger.
Another traveller termed the service a “very big achievement,” noting that it would significantly cut travel time and improve accessibility. However, passengers also urged the public to maintain cleanliness and take responsibility for preserving the facility.
“This is a valuable asset for all of us. We must keep it clean and take care of it like our own property,” a passenger said.
The launch is being widely seen as a transformative step in strengthening connectivity, boosting tourism, and improving overall mobility in Jammu and Kashmir.
Historic First: Jammu and Srinagar Connected by Direct Train Under PM Modi’s Leadership
