Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of the Jammu division, Uchit Singhal told PTI that the focus is now on overcoming operational and security challenges to achieve the next landmark in Jammu and Kashmir’s rail expansion.
After introducing a new two-minute halt for Vande Bharat trains at Reasi station, Singhal described the ongoing work as part of a “dream project to bring Kashmir onto India’s railway map.”
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“The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, marked a historic step as the first train service connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari. The journey has begun, and efforts are underway to enable direct train operations linking Kashmir with other parts of the country soon,” he said.
Starting October 30, the Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat Express (train numbers 26401 and 26402) will include a brief stop at Reasi station. The northbound train will depart from Katra at 8:10 am, reach Reasi at 8:28 am, and continue towards Srinagar. The return service will arrive at Reasi at 4:34 pm.
According to Singhal, the stoppage has been introduced on an experimental basis for one month following approval from the Railway Board. “Reasi serves as the district headquarters and holds strategic importance. The continuation of this stop will depend on passenger feedback and commercial feasibility,” he explained.
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Previously, Banihal was the only scheduled halt on the route, functioning as a key trans-shipment point. The decision to add Reasi followed appeals from locals and elected representatives.
“When road transport was disrupted by heavy rains in August and September, we operated a special train between Katra and Banihal for a month to facilitate smooth travel,” Singhal said.
He added that the Katra-Srinagar service has been widely praised for its speed, comfort, and reliability. “The inclusion of Reasi as a stop will boost regional connectivity, benefiting pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi shrine as well as tourists coming to see the Chenab Bridge and nearby attractions.”
BJP leader and Reasi MLA Kuldeep Raj Dubey flagged off the service at Reasi before boarding for Srinagar.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
