• Source:JND
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Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express: In a big step towards connecting Kashmir to the rest of India through railways, the first Vande Bharat Express to Srinagar is all set to start from Katra station on 19 April 2025. This will be the first phase of the railway project, which aims to eventually run a direct train from New Delhi to Srinagar by August or September this year. The train will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

No Direct Train Yet – Train Change at Katra Mandatory

At present, passengers travelling from New Delhi to Srinagar will not be able to take a direct train. Instead, they will have to change trains at Katra station.

Katra will act as a transition point, where passengers must undergo strict security checks, including ID verification and luggage scanning. This process may take around 2 to 3 hours, as per railway officials. To manage this efficiently, a dedicated passenger lounge is being set up at Katra, equipped with multiple scanners.

Once the checks are completed, passengers will board the Vande Bharat Express to Srinagar from Platform No. 1.

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Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Train:Why Are These Checks Necessary?

According to railway sources, there are two main reasons for this extra security process:

- Weather Conditions: The weather in Srinagar is quite different from that in the plains. This pause allows passengers to adjust physically, especially during colder months.

- Security Reasons: Given that Jammu & Kashmir is a sensitive area, tight security measures are in place to ensure the safety of travellers.

Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express:Train Schedule, Route, and Ticket Prices

The new Vande Bharat Express will run daily between Katra and Srinagar, covering the journey in just 3 hours and 10 minutes. It will pass through 38 tunnels and stop at 17 stations along the way.

Here are the key details:

Route Departure Time Arrival Time Travel Time Fare (AC Chair) Fare (Executive)
Katra to Srinagar 8:10 AM 11:20 AM 3 hrs 10 mins Rs 1,500 – Rs 1,600 Rs 2,200 – Rs 2,500
Srinagar to Katra 12:45 PM 03:55 PM 3 hrs 10 mins Rs 1,500 – Rs 1,600 Rs 2,200 – Rs 2,500

Top Speed: 140 km/h

Total Stops: 17

Tunnels En Route: 38