Srinagar, Jan 01: Following the success of the Vande Bharat Express, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has put forward a proposal to launch a new luxury tourist train, “The Paradise Express,” aimed at boosting tourism in Jammu & Kashmir.
This initiative is designed to elevate India’s status among the world’s top scenic railways, placing it alongside renowned routes like Switzerland’s Glacier Express, New Zealand’s TransAlpine, Peru Rail, and Norway’s Bergen Railway. A senior IRCTC official informed Rising Kashmir that the Paradise Express aims to enhance tourism in the region by providing an immersive travel experience combining adventure, culture, and spectacular views.
“The train will offer a unique journey across Jammu & Kashmir, showcasing the stunning vistas and cultural richness of the region,” the official added. The proposed 325-kilometer route will span from Jammu to Baramulla, with key stops including Udhampur, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Chenab Bridge, Banihal, Anantnag, Srinagar, and Baramulla.
A major highlight of the Paradise Express will be the Chenab Bridge, the tallest railway bridge in the world, which will be promoted as a major tourist attraction along the route. The train will operate six days a week, with Wednesdays reserved for maintenance at Jammu. It will feature five Vistadome Executive Chair Cars, one Pantry Car, and two Power Cars, offering passengers entertainment, freshly prepared meals, and souvenirs for a memorable experience.
The train is also designed to connect passengers to popular tourist destinations like Vaishno Devi, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Srinagar through specially curated itineraries. “Chenab Bridge will be a focal point of the journey, with a planned cafeteria and museum for tourists at the site, along with a 90-minute sightseeing halt,” the official explained.
As for the current status of the proposal, IRCTC has requested the Ministry of Railways to amend provisions under the Bharat Gaurav Policy to facilitate the train’s operation. Key requests include approval to operate with a minimum of eight coaches instead of the current 14-coach requirement, the introduction of new Vistadome coaches equipped with public address systems and CCTV cameras, and revisions to haulage and charging principles for smaller train compositions.
“We have also sought the Ministry’s support in assessing the operational feasibility of the schedule, including maintenance and tourist halts, and providing necessary approvals,” the official said.
IRCTC is optimistic that the Paradise Express will set new standards for scenic rail travel in India, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and engineering marvels.
On January 6, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Jammu Railway Division virtually from New Delhi, marking a significant step forward in the region’s railway infrastructure development. This move is expected to enhance connectivity and meet the long-standing demands of local organizations.
Northern Railways has finalised its winter train operation plan for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK)-Kashmir Valley section. As part of the plan, three key trains, including the high-speed Vande Bharat Express, will operate on the route. Two additional Mail/Express services will also be introduced to improve travel convenience and connectivity during the winter season.
New Jmu division to oversee 742 kms rail network
The Northern Railway has officially announced the formation of a new division with its headquarters in Jammu. This division will cover a total rail network of 742.1 kilometres and will include four key sections.
A senior official at Northern Railways told Rising Kashmir that there will be formation of a new division and it is significant move is part of a reorganization of the Firozpur division to improve efficiency and enhance railway services in the region.
“The division will include four key sections. These are the Pathankot-Jammu-Udhampur (renamed Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Section)-Srinagar-Baramulla route spanning 423 kilometers, the Bhogpur Sirwal-Pathankot section covering 87.21 kilometers, the Batala (excluding)-Pathankot section stretching across 68.17 kilometers, and the Pathankot-Joginder Nagar (narrow gauge section) comprising 163.72 kilometers,” he said.
“The final jurisdiction of these sections will be determined after the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR). The divisional headquarters in Jammu is expected to be a state-of-the-art facility. It will leverage advanced information technology systems and operate with a lean organizational structure to ensure efficiency,” he said.
The official said that all necessary posts for the division will be reassigned from the existing workforce of Northern Railway, ensuring the optimal use of resources.
“The General Manager of Northern Railway has stressed the importance of completing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) at the earliest. The DPR will outline the infrastructure needs, organizational requirements, and the modalities for transferring staff to the new division,” he said.
The official said that this reorganization is anticipated to boost rail connectivity, enhance operational efficiency, and foster development in the region, benefiting both passengers and freight services significantly.
