JAMMU, Jan 24: The Vande Bharat Express train, specially crafted for Jammu and Kashmir’s harsh winter conditions, has arrived in Jammu, drawing many eager travelers hoping to embark on a memorable journey to Kashmir.
On Friday, the Jammu railway station came alive with a distinctive announcement: “Yatrigan kripya dhyan dein, Vande Bharat train sankhya 244027 Kashmir jane ke liye platform number ek par khadi hai.”
The locals and passengers waiting for other trains erupted in joy, chanting slogans such as “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” A swift crowd gathered on platform number one as the special Vande Bharat train prepared to serve the route from Katra to Kashmir.
“We are thrilled about the arrival of this special train to Kashmir. It’s been our dream to ride it. Now, Kashmir is connected by rail to Kanniyakumari — all the way at the southern tip of India,” said Adik Kadam from Pune. He, along with his family, was returning after enjoying the snowfall in Kashmir. “With this train connection, Kashmir feels much more accessible,” he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is anticipated to officially inaugurate the service from Katra, having received clearance from the Commissioner of Railway Safety for the Katra-Baramulla section. The specific date for the inauguration remains unannounced.
The Railways has successfully completed the 272-kilometer Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
Railway officials noted that on June 8, the Railway Board introduced a Vande Bharat Express train designed to operate efficiently in Jammu and Kashmir’s challenging winter weather in preparation for the Katra-Srinagar route. This train boasts unique climate-adaptive features.
Unlike the other 136 Vande Bharat Express trains currently in operation across India, this variant includes additional specifications tailored for the extreme weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir.
Enhanced heating systems prevent water and bio-toilet tanks from freezing, supply warm air for the vacuum system, and ensure the air-brake system operates smoothly even in sub-zero temperatures.
Additionally, it features built-in heating elements in the windshield to automatically defrost the driver’s front glass, promoting clear visibility during severe winter weather.
Besides these specialized climate features, the train maintains all the amenities of existing Vande Bharat trains, including fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic plug doors, and mobile charging outlets.
By improving the Kashmir valley’s link to the national railway network, this train represents India’s dedication to closing geographical and economic disparities.
The approved operations signify significant progress toward completing the USBRL project, which connects the Kashmir valley to the wider Indian railway system. In recent weeks, Indian Railways has executed six trial runs on various track sections, reaching major milestones like India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge, and the renowned arch bridge over the Chenab River at Kauri.
The Anji Khad Bridge is a pivotal achievement of the USBRL project, standing 331 meters above the riverbed with its single towering pylon. Having taken years to build, its current height above the foundation level is 191 meters.
At 473.25 meters in total length, the Anji Khad Bridge ranks among the world’s two highest railway bridges, alongside the Chenab Bridge at Kauri, which holds the title of the world’s highest railway bridge at 359 meters above the riverbed, standing a stunning 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
