Katra/Srinagar, June 6(KNB) – In a significant boost to Jammu and Kashmir’s infrastructure and connectivity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off the region’s first Vande Bharat Express, linking Katra with Srinagar. The high-speed train, known for its comfort and efficiency, is expected to transform travel across the mountainous region and strengthen socio-economic integration.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the Katra railway station, where Prime Minister Modi also interacted with students and railway personnel, highlighting the human dimension of this landmark development. Addressing the gathering, he emphasized the government’s commitment to accelerating development in Jammu and Kashmir through modern infrastructure.
“This is not just the launch of a train; it is a symbol of a new era of connectivity and opportunity for Jammu and Kashmir. The Vande Bharat Express will bring people closer, reduce travel time, and give a boost to tourism and trade in the Valley,” said the Prime Minister.
The newly inaugurated Vande Bharat Express is designed to cover the distance between Katra and Srinagar in just three hours—dramatically cutting down the current travel time. The train passes through challenging terrain, including the Chenab Bridge—the world’s highest railway bridge—making it a technological marvel as well as a symbol of India’s engineering prowess.
The Kashmir Vande Bharat train is equipped with state-of-the-art features, including modern onboard facilities, enhanced safety measures, and advanced climate control systems tailored for the region’s diverse weather conditions. The train is part of the larger Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL) project, which is expected to be fully completed later this year.
Railway officials noted that the train will not only ease the movement of people but also significantly contribute to regional economic activity by facilitating the movement of goods and improving access to markets.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit also included a broader review of developmental projects in the Union Territory. His interactions with schoolchildren and local railway workers were lauded for their warmth and motivational tone, reflecting the government’s focus on inclusive growth and human development.
With this launch, Jammu and Kashmir becomes the latest region to join the expanding Vande Bharat network, signaling a new chapter in India’s ambitious infrastructure expansion aimed at bridging distances and boosting regional integration.(KNB)