New Delhi (India), January 11: Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, shared a video showcasing the Vande Bharat Express train designed specifically for the upcoming Katra-Srinagar rail route, connecting Jammu to the Kashmir Valley.
The 49-second video, posted on Vaishnaw’s X account, highlights the train’s unique features tailored to withstand Jammu & Kashmir’s challenging winter conditions. According to railway officials, this Vande Bharat Express includes several enhancements compared to the 136 trains currently operating across the country. These features are intended to ensure smooth operations and enhance passenger comfort in the region’s extreme weather.
The train is equipped with advanced heating systems to prevent freezing of water and bio-toilet tanks, provide warm air for the vacuum system and laboratories, and ensure the air-brake system works efficiently even in sub-zero temperatures.
In addition to climate-specific features, the train offers the same amenities as other Vande Bharat trains, including fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic plug doors, and mobile charging sockets.
With the final safety inspection underway, the 111 km Banihal-Katra section of the new Jammu division rail line is set to provide world-class travel experiences. Jammu station is also being redeveloped to accommodate eight platforms and modern facilities.
Vaishnaw announced that the long-awaited train service between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley will begin soon, marking the end of the wait for train connectivity between the two regions. The Banihal-Katra section’s completion is an engineering feat, with 97 kilometers covered by tunnels and seven kilometers supported by major bridges.