Banihal, Apr 29: In a significant boost to rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, the much-awaited extension of the Vande Bharat Express between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar will be inaugurated tomorrow, April 30, by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The service will commence regular operations from May 2, 2026, with authorities issuing a detailed timetable.
According to the Northern Railway schedule, Train Nos. 26401/26402 Vande Bharat Express will run between Jammu Tawi (JAT) and Srinagar (SINA), halting at key stations including Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi, and Banihal. The train will complete the journey in approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes, maintaining an average speed of 55.17 kmph.
The train from Jammu Tawi will depart at 6:20 AM and reach Srinagar at 11:10 AM. On the return leg, it will leave Srinagar at 2:00 PM and arrive in Jammu Tawi at 6:50 PM, enabling same-day connectivity between the two regions.
Meanwhile, the existing Vande Bharat service operating between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (Train Nos. 26403/26404) has also been extended up to Jammu Tawi. These services will operate six days a week (except Wednesday), further strengthening the rail network across the Union Territory.
Under the revised timetable:
Train No. 26404 (Srinagar–Jammu Tawi) will depart at 8:00 AM and reach Jammu Tawi at 12:40 PM, completing the journey in 4 hours and 40 minutes.
Train No. 26403 (Jammu Tawi–Srinagar) will depart at 1:20 PM and arrive in Srinagar at 6:00 PM.
Officials said the trains will operate with a modern 20-coach Vande Bharat rake, offering enhanced passenger comfort, improved safety features, and faster travel. The service will be powered by electric traction, with primary maintenance at Budgam.
Railway authorities termed the development a historic milestone for Jammu and Kashmir, noting that the introduction of the semi-high-speed train will significantly reduce travel time and enhance connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu region.
Officials of Northern Railway said the inauguration ceremony in Jammu, to be presided over by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, is expected to be attended by senior railway officials and dignitaries, marking a major step toward improved transportation infrastructure and regional economic growth.
