Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the historic Srinagar–Jammu–Delhi rail link on June 6, 2025, at Katra in Jammu’s Udhampur district. This new rail link will provide all-weather connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of India. It will ensure year-round access to the region.
The Vande Bharat Express service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar will start regular runs from June 7, 2025. This service aims to boost tourism, trade, and local jobs in Jammu and Kashmir.
Engineering Marvels Connecting Kashmir
The Srinagar-Katra rail link features two engineering wonders: the Chenab Rail Bridge and the Anji Khad Bridge.
The Chenab Rail Bridge stands 359 meters above the riverbed. It is the world’s tallest railway arch bridge, even taller than the Eiffel Tower. Built at a cost of ₹1,486 crore, it can withstand winds up to 260 km/h. The bridge is designed to last 120 years.
The Anji Khad Bridge is India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge. It rises 331 meters above the river and stretches 725 meters long. The bridge uses 96 high-tensile cables and a 193-meter tall inverted Y-shaped pylon. Over 8,200 metric tonnes of steel went into its construction, with 653 km of cable strands.
These bridges are key to providing reliable rail travel through difficult Himalayan terrain.
Vande Bharat Express Timings
From June 7, 2025, two pairs of Vande Bharat trains will run six days a week between Katra and Srinagar, stopping at Banihal.
- Train 26404 departs Srinagar at 8 a.m., stops at Banihal at 9:02 a.m., and arrives at Katra by 10:58 a.m.
- Return train 26403 leaves Katra at 2:55 p.m., stops at Banihal at 4:40 p.m., and reaches Srinagar at 5:53 p.m.
The second pair runs:
- Train 26401 departs Katra at 8:10 a.m., stops at Banihal at 9:58 a.m., and reaches Srinagar by 11:08 a.m.
- Train 26402 leaves Srinagar at 2 p.m., halts at Banihal at 3:10 p.m., and arrives in Katra at 4:58 p.m.
These trains will operate six days a week with one day off for maintenance.
Economic and Social Impact
PM Modi highlighted that infrastructure projects worth ₹46,000 crore will be inaugurated. This will have a lasting positive impact on Jammu and Kashmir.
The rail link will ease travel problems. When highways block traffic, flight tickets often jump from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000. This train will offer a cheaper, reliable alternative.
Local farmers will benefit too. Apple, cherry, and other fruit producers will get easier access to markets. This will boost their incomes and regional trade.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called this project a long-awaited dream come true. He hopes it will transform connectivity and the economy.
Security and Future Plans
Security has been tightened for the inauguration. CRPF, Army, and Railway Protection Force are deployed at critical spots, including the Chenab Bridge and Katra-Baramulla route.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said a direct Srinagar-Delhi train will start in September 2025. This depends on completing new platforms at Jammu Railway Station.
PM Modi’s visit is his first to Jammu and Kashmir since recent military tensions and the Pahalgam terror attack.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s inauguration of the Srinagar-Katra all-weather rail link marks a new era for Jammu and Kashmir. The project will boost connectivity, tourism, and trade. It promises better lives for thousands of residents.
This rail link is more than infrastructure — it symbolizes integration, progress, and hope for Jammu and Kashmir’s future.
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