Srinagar, Jan 22: Ahead of the inauguration of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) section in the first week of February 2025, trial runs of the Vande Bharat rakes are set for January 24 and 25, 2025, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
A senior railway official told Rising Kashmir that the Vande Bharat rakes will be moved from Srinagar to Budgam on January 24 and 25, 2025, with testing taking place between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Baramulla (BDGM).
“These trials are crucial to ensuring the USBRL section is fully operational and ready for the upcoming inauguration. The Vande Bharat rakes have been specifically chosen for their ability to navigate this challenging terrain while providing efficiency and comfort,” the official said.
The USBRL section is set to be inaugurated in the first week of February 2025, marking a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.
“This project demonstrates the government’s commitment to connecting the region to the rest of the country through modern infrastructure. The USBRL section will boost connectivity, tourism, and economic growth in the Union Territory,” the official added.
The much-anticipated inauguration is expected to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
“We are in discussions with the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and are optimistic about confirming the inauguration date soon,” the official said.
The USBRL section is expected to be a game-changer for the region, promising improved rail connectivity, reduced travel times, and better integration with the national rail network.
“The inauguration of this project will not only strengthen the bond between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of India but also significantly contribute to the region’s socio-economic development,” the official said.
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Modi virtually inaugurated the Jammu Division of Indian Railways, fulfilling a long-standing demand in the region.
Meanwhile, Northern Railways has announced the train schedules for the Katra-Srinagar route, providing multiple travel options. The Vande Bharat Express will depart from Katra at 8:10 am, reaching Srinagar at 11:20 am. For those preferring a later departure, the Mail Express will leave Katra at 9:50 am, arriving in Srinagar at 1:10 pm. Another Mail Express service will depart from Katra at 3:00 pm, arriving in Srinagar at 6:20 pm.
For the return journey, the Mail Express will depart from Srinagar at 8:55 am, arriving in Katra at 12:05 pm. The Vande Bharat Express will leave Srinagar at 12:45 pm and reach Katra at 3:55 pm. A final Mail Express service will depart Srinagar at 3:10 pm, arriving in Katra at 6:30 pm.
First week of Feb is over and still no announcement. Is anyone asking the government any tough questions about the cause of the delay. USBRL is a big political mockery.