Published on: June 2, 2025 | By Taaza Wire Team
In a first-ever milestone for Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on June 6,2025, inaugurate the first train to Kashmir Valley. The Vande Bharat Express will operate from Katra, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine bas camp, to Baramulla in north Kashmir– a huge relief for connectivity, tourism, and security.
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Vande Bharat Express Train to Kashmir: A Long-Awaited Dream Comes True
After decades of engineering wonders, such as constructing the world’s tallest rail bridge over the Chenab River and the country’s first cable-stayed rail bridge in Reasi, the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) is finally completed.
The PM will go to both iconic bridges prior to bridges prior to flagging off the train from Katra. The event will also feature a huge rally at Katra Stadium, which is seeing final security and logistical preparations.
Why June 6 Launch Matters
The train was initially planned to be launched on April 19, but it was put off owing to adverse weather and later security events, including the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor(May 7-10), in which Indian forces struck terror infrastructure across the line.
The June 6 opening falls in line with preparations for the Shri Amarnath Yatra, which will be held from July 3 to August 9, when thousands of pilgrims visit the holy cave shrine. Given early and heavy monsoon anticipated, the train route provides a critical alternative to frequently blocked Jammu-Srinagar National Highway–Particularly between Ramban and Banihal.
“Special trains may be run for Amarnath Yatris in case of highway blockades,” officials confirmed.
Train Services: What to Expect
In the first phase, the Vande Bharat train will run on the route alone. It will travel from Katra to Baramulla with a smooth and picturesque ride down the middle of Kashmir. A virtual launch from Baramulla to Katra has also been planned.
Operations could move to Jammu in the second phase once work on the expansion of Jammu Railway Station, including extra platforms is done, Likely by August-September.
Key Highlights of the New Route:
- Distance Covered: ~272 km
- Major Stops: Katra, Reasi, Sangaldan, Banihal, Qazigund, Srinagar, Baramulla
- Special Design: Custom-built Vande Bharat for Kashmir
- Security: Extensive audits and reinforcements post-Pahalgam attack
- Historic Infrastructure:
- Chenab Rail Bridge – World’s highest
- Anji Khad Bridge – First cable-stayed railway bridge in India
USBRL: Engineering Marvel at ₹41,000 Crore
The USBRL project — a ₹41,000 crore mega initiative — has been completed in phases since 2009:
| Phase | Section | Year Commissioned |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Qazigund–Baramulla (118 km) | Oct 2009 |
| 2 | Banihal–Qazigund (18 km) | June 2013 |
| 3 | Udhampur–Katra (25 km) | July 2014 |
| 4 | Banihal–Sangaldan (48.1 km) | Feb 2024 |
| 5 | Sangaldan–Reasi (46 km) | June 2024 |
| 6 | Reasi–Katra (17 km) | Completed March 2025 |
Trial runs have been successfully conducted, including electric train tests and even Army movements during Operation Sindoor.
No Direct Train from Delhi Yet
As of now, passengers from Delhi or other states will have to deboard at Katra and board the Kashmir-bound train. However, with station upgrades at Jammu, direct trains to the Valley may become a reality later this year.
Security Tightened for PM Visit and Railway Safety
After recent terror attacks, a new security scan of the entire stretch has been conducted. There is increased police deployment, monitoring, and upgrade of infrastructure to protect passengers and railway properties.
Boost for Pilgrimage & Local Economy
The train service is expected to be a boon for Shri Amarnath Ji and Vaishno Devi pilgrims, especially during the monsoon. It will also boost tourism, economic opportunities, and inter-regional connectivity, making remote Himalayan destinations more accessible.
Final Words
This inauguration is not merely of a train; it’s about integrating the regions, strengthening national security, and giving the people their due with improved infrastructure. With the flagging off by PM Modi on June 6, India’s vision of integrating Kashmir with the national rail grid will finally be realized.
Tune into Taaza Wire for the latest news on Vande Bharat routes, infrastructure achievements, and national updates.
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