Katra-Srinagar Rail Link: Key Updates, Train Timings, and PM Modi’s Inauguration

Katra-Srinagar Rail Link Nears Completion: Key Developments and Inauguration Plans

The long-anticipated Katra-Srinagar rail link, a pivotal segment of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, is on the brink of completion, promising enhanced connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir. This article delves into the latest developments, including inspection schedules, inaugural train timings, and upcoming inaugurations.

Inspection Rescheduled for Katra-Reasi Section

The Commissioner of Railway Safety, Northern Circle, New Delhi, has rescheduled the inspection of the Katra-Reasi rail line to January 7 and 8, 2025. This 16.501 km section is crucial for the USBRL project, aiming to establish a seamless railway connection to Srinagar. Accompanying officials during the inspection will include the Chief Administrative Officer of USBRL, Chief Bridge Engineer, Chief Signal Engineer, Chief Operations Manager-Goods, Chief Engineer General, Divisional Railway Manager of Firozpur, and other relevant officers.

Northern Railway Announces First-Ever Train Timings

In a significant milestone, Northern Railway has released the inaugural train schedules for the Katra-Srinagar route, featuring both Vande Bharat Express and Mail/Express services:

• Vande Bharat Express:
  • Departs Katra (SVDK) at 8:10 a.m.
  • Arrives in Srinagar at 11:20 a.m.
• Mail/Express (Morning Service):
  • Departs Katra at 9:50 a.m.
  • Arrives in Srinagar at 1:10 p.m.
• Mail/Express (Afternoon Service):
  • Departs Katra at 3:00 p.m.
  • Arrives in Srinagar at 6:20 p.m.

These services are anticipated to commence following the project’s inauguration, enhancing accessibility to the Kashmir Valley.

Prime Minister Modi to Inaugurate Jammu Rail Division

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the newly established Jammu rail division on January 6, 2025, via video conferencing from New Delhi. This division, headquartered in Jammu, has been formed by reorganizing the Firozpur division to improve administrative efficiency and railway operations in the region. Additionally, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation for the Rayagada railway division in Odisha, further expanding the Indian Railways network.

Trial Runs Commence on Katra-Reasi Section

The Indian Railways has initiated trial runs on the Katra-Reasi section, marking a significant step toward operationalizing the USBRL project. These trials are essential to ensure the safety and reliability of the infrastructure before commencing regular passenger services. The completion of this section is expected to facilitate direct train services between New Delhi and Srinagar, significantly reducing travel time and enhancing convenience for passengers.

The impending completion of the Katra-Srinagar rail link represents a monumental achievement in India’s railway infrastructure, promising to bolster connectivity, promote tourism, and stimulate economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir. With inspections, trial runs, and inaugurations scheduled, the region is poised to witness a new era of enhanced accessibility and development.