Jammu, May 3: Emerging as an excellent alternative to air travel, Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express registered a significant jump in its occupancy rate, spiralling up by around 6 percent, on its second day of regular commercial service, on Sunday.
Over 5000 passengers travelled between two capital cities of J&K using this premium service of Jammu Railway Division of the Northern Railway on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
Regular commercial service of this state-of-the-art train between Jammu and Srinagar commenced on May 2, two days after its formal flagging-off by the Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw from Jammu Railway Station.
On its inaugural day, around 4000 passengers travelled on the train, thus recording a 70 percent occupancy rate.
Giving a brief account of the successful operation of the Vande Bharat train on the Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Jammu routes, Public Relations Inspector (PRI), Jammu Railway Division, Raghvender Singh informed, “While on its inaugural day, 3,925 people travelled on the train, on the second day i.e., May 3, more than 5,000 people undertook the journey. In the near future, its occupancy is expected to reach 100 percent, a testament to the growing popularity of the Vande Bharat service.”
He asserted that while airfares between Jammu and Srinagar were skyrocketing- ranging between Rs 4,000 to Rs 6,000, the ‘Vande Bharat Express’ was proving to be a boon for passengers traveling amidst the beautiful valleys of Jammu and Kashmir.
“It is transporting passengers to their destinations for a mere Rs 730 (excluding catering charges). An affordable and rapid journey – saving both time and money – has become the hallmark of the Vande Bharat. This state-of-the-art train covers the distance between Jammu and Srinagar in just 4 hours and 45 minutes. Also compared to road travel, it is not only faster medium of transport but also offers passengers a fatigue-free and comfortable experience,” Singh said, adding, “The first choice for thousands of travellers, this service is being utilised daily by a multitude of passengers to reach their respective destinations.”
He pointed out that the train’s premium amenities such as its GPS-based information system and magnificent interiors, made it the preferred choice for both tourists and locals alike.
“For passengers on a limited budget, the Vande Bharat presents an excellent alternative to air travel. While flight rates typically hover between Rs 4,000 and Rs 6,000, this initiative by Indian Railways has made the journey to Kashmir even more accessible and affordable for the common man. Passengers are consistently prioritising the Vande Bharat to enjoy a safe, punctual and comfortable journey, thereby propelling tourism and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir to new heights,” PRI Jammu Railway Division said.
Regarding onboard dining, he informed that the passengers traveling on the Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar would have the opportunity to savour the flavours of local cuisine.
“IRCTC has curated a special vegetarian Kashmiri menu for this route, prioritising traditional flavours. Passengers have the option to select “No Food” at the time of ticket booking. If they choose not to avail of the meals, the catering charges are deducted from the ticket price. Even if a passenger does not opt for meals at the time of booking, he or she can still purchase food on board the train by making a payment, subject to availability,” Singh said.
Vaishnaw had flagged off extended Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express service from Jammu Railway Station on April 30, 2026 in the presence of the Union Minister in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh; Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; MPs Sat Paul Sharma and Gulam Ali Khatana besides other dignitaries.
This Vande Bharat train is equipped with ‘winterisation’ technology, enabling it to operate smoothly even in sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall. It features special ‘heating cables’ to prevent pipelines from freezing, as well as 1800W silicon heating pads installed in the water tanks.
