Jammu–Srinagar Rail Journey Now Under 5 Hours as Vande Bharat Extended to Jammu
Jammu, 24th February 2026: Northern Railway has extended the operation of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express up to Jammu, enabling passengers to travel between Jammu and Srinagar in less than five hours. The move connects Jammu directly with the Kashmir Valley through a semi high-speed rail service.
With the extension, commuters can now undertake the Jammu-Srinagar journey with significantly reduced travel time compared to road transport. The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway frequently witnesses disruptions due to landslides, snowfall and adverse weather, affecting passenger and freight movement. Railway officials stated that the expanded Vande Bharat service is expected to provide a more dependable, all-weather transport option.
The Vande Bharat trains operating on the route are equipped with modern passenger amenities, enhanced safety systems and improved ride comfort. The service is likely to cater to residents, students, traders and tourists traveling between the winter capital and the Valley.
The extension follows the dedication of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project to the nation on June 6, 2025, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After the completion of the rail link, demands had been raised by various sections of the public for direct connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar through a semi high-speed train.
Railway authorities said the extension is aimed at improving regional connectivity and facilitating smoother passenger movement across Jammu and Kashmir.
