Katra-Srinagar Rly line ready to begin commercial Ops soon: Vaishnaw

JAMMU, Feb 03: Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced on Monday that all necessary testing for the much-anticipated Katra-Srinagar railway line has been completed, and commercial operations will begin shortly.
Speaking via Video Press Conference from Rail Bhawan in New Delhi, Vaishnaw said that also highlighted the ongoing redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station, stating that once completed, direct railway connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar will be operational.
The testing for the Katra-Srinagar railway line has been successfully completed, and commercial operations will begin soon, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced. He added that the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has submitted its report, clearing the way for train services to start shortly.
Vaishnaw said that Vande Bharat trains, designed to suit the region’s climate, will also be introduced. Meanwhile, the Jammu railway station is undergoing expansion, increasing from three tracks to seven.
“The project is expected to be completed by August or September 2025. Once finished, the Vande Bharat train can operate between Srinagar and Katra, he said.
The Minister also said that to ensure smooth travel, a timetable is being planned for the Jammu-Srinagar route, preventing any future inconvenience. Once the Jammu station redevelopment is complete, it will be directly connected to Srinagar via Vande Bharat.
“The government has allocated ₹844 crore to enhance railway infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir, reaffirming its commitment to improving connectivity. The railway expansion beyond Baramulla to Kupwara and Leh is in progress, with surveys already completed,” he said.
Union Railway Minister Vaishnaw said that when the railway network is fully connected, it will significantly improve regional connectivity. There is no shortage of funds for J&K’s railway projects, and under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, all railway tracks in the region have been electrified,” he said.
On the subject of railway electrification, emphasised the significant strides made since 2014, revealing that 344 km of railway tracks have been electrified in the region, achieving 100% electrification in Jammu & Kashmir.
In response to a query about the need for passengers to change trains at Jammu Railway Station for onward travel to Srinagar, Vaishnaw said that the varying terrain and climatic conditions necessitate this step.
“The need for passengers to change trains arises due to the challenging terrain and weather conditions. The redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station is being designed to accommodate these factors, ensuring a smoother and more efficient travel experience,” the minister said.
Vaishnaw also provided an update on the region’s overall railway infrastructure, noting that 135 km of new railway tracks have been constructed in Jammu & Kashmir since 2014, improving connectivity across the region.
“In addition, four major stations—Budgam, Jammu Tawi, Katra, and Udhampur—are being developed as ‘Amrit Stations’ at a total cost of Rs. 292.5 crore. These upgrades will significantly enhance passenger amenities and station infrastructure,” he said.
About direct train from Srinagar to New Delhi, he said there will is no direct train from Kashmir to Delhi, but the ticket price will remain the same as train bridging will be implemented along the route.
He said Ongoing railway projects in Jammu & Kashmir include one new track project spanning 272 km at a cost of ₹41,159 crore. Additionally, four Amrit stations—Budgam, Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, and Udhampur—are being developed for ₹292.5 crore.
“Infrastructure improvements include six rail flyovers and under-bridges, along with enhanced passenger amenities since 2014, such as five lifts, six escalators, and WiFi at 28 stations. The region also benefits from two Vande Bharat trains covering three districts with four unique stoppages,” he said.
The union railways minister concluded by reaffirming the government’s dedication to modernizing Jammu & Kashmir’s railway infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and improving regional connectivity.
“The budget allocation and these development projects reflect our commitment to strengthening the railway network in Jammu and Kashmir, contributing to the region’s overall progress,” Vaishnaw said.