- By Nidhi Giri
- Fri, 07 Nov 2025 12:22 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A new era of rail connectivity is about to begin in Jammu and Kashmir, with the launch of the Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar scheduled for early December. The Jammu Railway Division has nearly completed all preparations for this historic milestone. Expansion and modernisation work at the Jammu Railway Station is currently in its final stages, ensuring the station is ready to welcome the train service.
Seven new platforms, two foot over bridges and a 72-metre long air concourse are being constructed in the station premises, which will connect both the new and old parts.
For the convenience of passengers, a second entry and exit point is also being constructed at the station. According to railway officials, the operation of the Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar will be a major step towards connecting the Kashmir Valley directly to the rail network. This train will provide passengers with a fast, comfortable, and modern travel experience.
Jammu Railway Station Expansion To Be Completed By March 2026
A senior official from the railway's construction wing said the Jammu railway station expansion will be completed by March 2026. The initial target was to complete the work by December 2025, but heavy rains two months ago, which disrupted the supply of construction materials, slowed the pace of work.
The official said that so far, six of the seven platforms have been completed, while three of the five washing lines have been completed. The foot overbridge on the Katra side is fully constructed, while the foot overbridge to platform number four on the Pathankot end is ready. Upon completion of the expansion, passengers at Jammu Railway Station will enjoy airport-like facilities, including state-of-the-art waiting rooms, escalators, elevators, and a digital information system.
Preparations For Vande Bharat From Jammu To Srinagar In Final Stages
Uchit Singhal, Divisional Commercial Manager of the Jammu Railway Division, stated that preparations for the operation of the Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar are in the final stages. He said that platform surfacing is nearly complete, while signal lighting and track inspection are in the final stages.
Singhal said, "We aim to launch a direct Vande Bharat train between Jammu and Srinagar in the first week of December." He said that the new train service will provide passengers with a faster and safer travel experience.
The launch of the Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar will significantly benefit passengers in terms of both travel time and convenience. Currently, it takes 7 to 8 hours to travel from Jammu to Srinagar by road, but Vande Bharat Express will cover this distance in approximately 4 hours. Consequently, the Vande Bharat Express from Delhi will take approximately 10-12 hours.
The train will feature state-of-the-art Wi-Fi, automatic doors, a GPS-based information system, and improved seating arrangements. It will be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Railway officials say the service will not only boost tourism but also strengthen commercial, social and cultural ties between Jammu and Kashmir. Currently, the Vande Bharat Express operates between Katra railway station and Srinagar.
Connectivity And New Pace Of Development
According to railway officials, the Vande Bharat service will open new avenues of development for Jammu and Kashmir. Rail connectivity between Jammu, Srinagar, and Baramulla will provide a major boost to trade, tourism, and local industries. Once the expansion of Jammu station is complete, it will be considered one of the most modern stations in North India.
Keeping passenger convenience in mind, parking areas, restrooms, and a smart ticketing system are being developed here. The operation of Vande Bharat will revolutionize Jammu and Kashmir's rail network. This will not only enhance passenger convenience but also accelerate the state's economic development.