The long-awaited Vande Bharat Express connecting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar is reportedly launching in the next two weeks, as per media updates. This will mark Kashmir Valley’s first semi-high-speed rail service and the third such train in the Union Territory.
Key Details:
- Fare Estimates: While final prices are pending, tickets for the AC Chair Car are likely to cost ₹1,500–1,600, and the Executive Chair Car ₹2,200–2,500.
- Travel Time: The train will reduce travel duration from 8–10 hours by road to approximately 3 hours.
- Route: It will operate on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), covering 150+ km in about 2.5 hours.
Schedule:
- Departure from SVDK at 8:10 AM, arriving in Srinagar by 11:20 AM.
- Return journey starts at 12:45 PM from Srinagar, reaching SVDK by 3:55 PM.
Stops Include: Reasi, Sangaldan, Banihal, Qazigund, Anantnag, and Avantipora.
Cold-Weather Adaptations:
Specially designed for Kashmir’s harsh winters, this train can operate at temperatures as low as -20°C. Features include:
- Heating systems in seats and cabins for passenger comfort.
- Heated windshields to avoid fogging or ice buildup, ensuring driver visibility.
- Anti-freeze plumbing and bio-toilets to prevent water from freezing.
Current Status:
The train has already arrived in the region and completed successful trial runs. Managed by Northern Railway, its official launch is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi within 15 days.
Keywords: Vande Bharat ticket price, when will Vande Bharat start from Katra to Srinagar, Vande bharat timetable, Vande bharat schedule, Katra to Srinagar vande bharat
