Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to inaugurate a historic Vande Bharat Express train connecting Katra and Srinagar on Friday. Unlike the 136 Vande Bharat trains already operational across the country, this new addition comes with enhanced features, specially tailored to navigate the unique challenges posed by the harsh climatic conditions of the Kashmir region.
Built under the 'Made in India' initiative, this state-of-the-art train is engineered to operate efficiently in freezing temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius. Among its many advanced technologies are heated windscreens that help clear frost automatically, thereby maintaining visibility for the driver in extreme weather. Additionally, the coaches are fitted with air-drying systems and sophisticated heating mechanisms to ensure the vacuum system and other components remain functional despite the sub-zero environment.
Another notable innovation is the thermal insulation of washrooms, which is designed to prevent the freezing of water in pipes and tanks. The coaches are fully air-conditioned, fitted with modern amenities such as automatic plug doors, CCTV surveillance, and mobile charging sockets, enhancing passenger comfort and safety.
To further ensure protection in severe weather conditions, the train is equipped with an anti-spall layer that safeguards against flying debris like stones or snow shards in case of window or windshield damage.
The Vande Bharat Express will run six days a week—excluding Wednesdays—between Srinagar and Katra, passing through Banihal. The northbound service will depart Srinagar at 8:00 am, reaching Banihal at 9:02 am and arriving in Katra by 10:58 am. The return journey will begin from Katra at 2:55 pm, with a stop at Banihal at 4:40 pm and arrival in Srinagar by 5:53 pm. The train is expected to reduce travel time between Srinagar and Katra by nearly two to three hours.
Alongside the train’s inauguration, PM Modi will also unveil two major infrastructural marvels: the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, and the Chenab Bridge, renowned as the world’s highest railway arch bridge.
This ambitious launch marks a significant step in strengthening rail connectivity in the region, promising faster, safer, and more comfortable travel for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.