VIDEO : Successful Trial Run of First Vande Bharat Express Train from Katra to Budgam
Srinagar, January 25 : In a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmir’s rail connectivity, the trial run of the first-ever Vande Bharat Express train from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station, Katra, to Budgam has been successfully completed.
A Historic Achievement
Railway officials confirmed the successful completion of the one-way trial run. The state-of-the-art train reached Jammu division on Friday before arriving in Srinagar on Saturday. Designated as Train 49 and Train 80 under the USBRL (Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link) section, the Vande Bharat Express will begin its commercial operations soon. This train marks the first Vande Bharat to operate in the Kashmir Valley, tailored specifically for extreme winter conditions.
During the trial, the train traversed India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, the iconic Anji Khad Bridge, and the world’s tallest railway bridge, the Chenab Bridge. These landmark crossings not only underscore India’s engineering prowess but also highlight the strategic importance of this rail link in the region.
#Kashmir train trial run: #VandeBharat train heading towards #Budgam from #Katra through #AnjiKhad Bridge and highest Chenab river bridge.
#VandeBharatExpress #Jammu #Srinagar@RailwayNorthern @RailMinIndia @AshwiniVaishnaw
video credit:- @devjmu pic.twitter.com/2kfVyNoma1— Akashvani News Jammu (@radionews_jammu) January 25, 2025
Designed for Harsh Winters
The Vande Bharat train for Jammu and Kashmir is uniquely equipped to handle sub-zero temperatures, ensuring comfort, safety, and reliability. Built to withstand temperatures as low as -30°C, the train features advanced technologies, including:
- Heating Systems: Advanced heating mechanisms prevent water and bio-toilet tanks from freezing. The train also incorporates an air-brake system and heated airflow to ensure smooth operations in freezing conditions.
- Heated Windshields: Triple-layered windshields embedded with heating filaments provide clear visibility for drivers even during heavy snowfall.
- Efficient Climate Control: Additional modifications ensure frost resistance, enabling seamless functionality in extreme winter climates.
Jammu and Kashmir’s Third Vande Bharat
This is the third Vande Bharat Express allocated to Jammu and Kashmir but the first to operate within the Kashmir Valley. Managed by the Northern Railway Zone, the train will revolutionize rail travel in the region, offering world-class comfort and speed to passengers. With this development, the Indian Railways has also completed the 272-kilometer-long Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Project, connecting the Valley to the rest of the country through a robust rail network.
Key Highlights of the Train
- Designed to navigate extreme weather conditions and challenging terrain.
- Equipped with cutting-edge safety features and advanced heating systems.
- Capable of operating at temperatures as low as -30°C.
- Traverses engineering marvels like the Anji Khad and Chenab Bridges.
A Gateway to Enhanced Connectivity
The Vande Bharat Express will significantly enhance regional connectivity and bolster economic opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir. It symbolizes India’s commitment to improving infrastructure and accessibility in its northernmost regions.
With its sleek design, state-of-the-art features, and ability to operate in harsh conditions, the Vande Bharat Express is poised to become a game-changer for rail travel in the Valley.
