Indian Railways is going to launch the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train connecting Srinagar and New Delhi. This semi-high-speed train will run on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link.
This is an important milestone for Kashmir, as the dream of seamless rail connectivity is about to come true.
Earlier, Kashmir’s railway network operated only within the valley. But with the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train, the region will have direct rail connectivity to New Delhi for the first time.
The train is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 26, 2025.
From Dream to Reality
The arrival of railways in Kashmir was once considered a distant dream, akin to “running horses in the air”. However, the Northern Railways have turned this dream into reality.
Overcoming immense challenges, they have successfully brought trains to the valley. The Kashmir Railway project has been in the works for the last 32 years.
One of the biggest challenges was to construct tunnels and tracks by cutting through high mountains. Moreover, constructing the world’s highest and most beautiful Chenab Bridge on this track was no small feat. Yet, the Indian Railways has done what once seemed impossible.
Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper Train: A Lifeline for Kashmir During Harsh Winters
Kashmir’s much-awaited dream is soon going to come true, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off the first Vande Bharat train to the region. The people of Kashmir are eagerly counting the days to witness this historic moment.
This train connecting Delhi to Srinagar is being touted as an all-weather connectivity solution. During winters, when highways are often closed due to heavy snowfall and airfare prices skyrocket, this train will act as a lifeline for the common people.
It will not only provide much-needed relief to the residents but will also prove beneficial for tourism and defence logistics in the valley.
Delhi to Srinagar in Under 13 Hours
The Vande Bharat train, known for being one of the latest and fastest trains in India, is set to traverse the stunning landscapes of Kashmir. It will pass through towering mountains and the world’s highest bridge to reach the beautiful valley.
The Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will cover the 800-kilometer distance in under 13 hours. Along its route, the train will make limited stops at key stations, including Ambala Cantt Junction, Ludhiana Junction, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Sangaldan, and Banihal.
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