In a historic development for Jammu and Kashmir’s rail connectivity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off the Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express from Nowgam Railway Station, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, inaugurated the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, as part of the Udhampur-Banihal railway project, which is a significant milestone in enhancing regional connectivity.
During the event, PM Modi also waved the Tiranga as he launched the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, in the presence of Jammu and Kashmir’s Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, CM Omar Abdullah, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. This new infrastructure will not only improve connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India but is also expected to drive growth in trade, tourism, and industrial development in the region. Additionally, PM Modi inaugurated a Rs 46,000 crore project in the region and flagged off the Vande Bharat Express, which will reduce the travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to just 3 hours.
Visual Spectacle at Nowgam Station: PM Modi’s Grand Arrival
The atmosphere at Nowgam Railway Station was charged with emotion and pride as PM Modi arrived to flag off the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express. Clad in traditional Kashmiri attire, the Prime Minister walked through the station premises amid thunderous applause and chants from locals and railway staff. The station was decked with tricolor banners, Kashmiri motifs, and LED visuals showcasing the engineering marvels of the USBRL project.
VIDEO | Jammu and Kashmir: PM Modi (@narendramodi) flags off Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express train.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 6, 2025
(Source: Third Party)
(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/UcGfEOqdHT
As part of his itinerary, PM Modi reviewed a detailed exhibition on the USBRL project, featuring models, construction timelines, and live drone feeds of the Chenab Bridge and other key sections.
PM Modi Interacts with Omar Abdullah and Railway Officials
During his visit, the Prime Minister engaged in a conversation with senior political leaders, including Omar Abdullah, and top officials such as Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The discussions revolved around the impact of the USBRL project on regional development, logistics, and tourism.
PM Modi also spent time with local engineers, migrant workers, and support staff who were directly involved in the construction of the Chenab Bridge, Banihal Tunnel, and the Anji Khad Bridge—components of the USBRL that pushed the boundaries of conventional engineering.
Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express: A New Era in Rail Connectivity
The launch of the Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express marks a turning point in the rail history of the region. For decades, accessibility in Jammu and Kashmir was constrained by terrain and weather. With this launch, travel time between Katra and Srinagar has been reduced to just under 3 hours, opening new possibilities for business, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Key Train Details:
- Route: Katra – Banihal – Srinagar
- Total Stops: Currently Banihal; additional stops to be added
- Frequency: Four services daily across two train sets
- Classes Available: Chair Car (₹715), Executive Class (₹1,320)
- Booking: Available on IRCTC post-launch
USBRL Project: Engineering Challenges and National Pride
The USBRL Project, under which this service is operating, represents one of the most daring infrastructure challenges tackled by Indian Railways. Stretching across 272 km, the project includes 38 tunnels, 927 bridges, and India’s longest rail tunnel—T-49, which is 12.75 km long. The most iconic element of this network is the Chenab Bridge, now the world’s highest railway arch bridge, standing at 359 meters above the riverbed.
Read also: Rs 100 Coin for Chenab Bridge Inauguration; Vande Bharat Train Services Begin from June 7
Highlight Features of the USBRL Project:
- Chenab Bridge: Taller than the Eiffel Tower, it is made to withstand earthquakes and high-speed winds.
- Banihal Tunnel: 8.6 km long and provides all-weather connectivity.
- Anji Khad Bridge: India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
- Snow galleries and avalanche shelters: Essential for uninterrupted operations through harsh winters.
CM Omar Abdullah Mixes Humour With Plea For Statehood At Historic Rail Inauguration
Mixing humour with political resolve, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday used the flagging-off ceremony of the first train to Kashmir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Katra to subtly but clearly articulate his government’s demand for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
Recalling the opening of the Katra railway station, the last programme of his first government in 2014, Abdullah pointed at a “coincidence” that four people present at the event on Friday were also on stage that day. Humorously pointing out the differing career trajectories of the persons involved, Abdullah said, “You (Narendra Modi) became the Prime Minister for the first time then… You came here right after the election. And by the grace of God, you inaugurated the Katra railway station here.
“After that, you won the election twice in a row and remained the prime minister of this country. Your minister of state in the PMO, Jitendra Singh, was also present… Even our respected Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who was the minister of state for railways at that time, was present.” Referring to his own position, Abdullah said, “And I, as the chief minister of a full-fledged state then, stand slightly demoted. I was the chief minister of a state. Now I am the chief minister of a union territory.” “But I believe that it will not take long for this to be corrected. And with your help, Jammu and Kashmir will again attain the status of a state,” Abdullah added.
PM Modi Applauds ‘Make in India’ Rail Technology
While addressing the gathering, PM Modi praised the indigenously developed Vande Bharat trains, stating they symbolize India’s self-reliance in the transportation sector. These trains are equipped with modern safety systems like Kavach, GPS-based real-time monitoring, bio-vacuum toilets, automatic doors, and infotainment systems.
PM Modi calls Chenab and Anji bridges symbols of India’s strength, Boost for Kashmir apples
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Chenab and Anji bridges as powerful symbols of India’s progress, highlighting their engineering marvels that stand taller than the Eiffel Tower.
The inauguration of mega infrastructure projects today marks a turning point in Jammu and Kashmir's development journey. Addressing a programme in Katra. https://t.co/yW4P7yaaRf
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 6, 2025
PM Modi: Pakistan targets humanity, tourism and Kashmiris’ livelihood
In his address in Katra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned Pakistan for its continuous efforts to disrupt the peace and progress of Jammu and Kashmir.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a rally in Katra, condemned the recent attack on tourists in Pahalgam, stating that it was a deliberate attempt to undermine the values of ‘insaniyat’ (humanity) and ‘Kashmiriyat’ (the unique spirit of Kashmir).
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised that the government has chosen to tackle challenges head-on while driving rapid development in Jammu and Kashmir.
Before the inauguration, Modi travelled in a rail engine coach to reach the spot. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah were present on the occasion.
#WATCH | J&K: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Anji bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, CM Omar Abdullah and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also present. #KashmirOnTrack
— ANI (@ANI) June 6, 2025
(Video: DD) pic.twitter.com/vMsBaMMNBb
The Prime Minister highlighted how these trains are not only faster but smarter, reflecting the vision of a New India powered by innovation and inclusivity.
Locals Celebrate Inclusion into India’s Rail Mainstream
For the people of Kashmir, the arrival of the Vande Bharat Express is more than just a train service—it’s a statement of national unity. Local traders, students, and daily commuters gathered in large numbers to witness the first run. For many, the train represents access to better education, healthcare, and economic opportunities without the previous travel delays caused by mountain routes.
Farmers and artisans from South Kashmir also welcomed the train service, seeing it as a chance to send their produce and handicrafts directly to national markets via faster, more reliable logistics.
Massive Employment Boost for the Region
The USBRL project and the Vande Bharat operations have brought in thousands of jobs for local youth, including skilled and unskilled labor, engineers, construction supervisors, hospitality professionals, and station managers. New coaching depots, maintenance sheds, and logistics centers are planned along the route to further increase employment opportunities.
Future Railway Expansion Plans for Jammu & Kashmir
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that with the successful launch of the Srinagar-Katra service, the focus will now shift to connecting Baramulla with Poonch and Rajouri and completing the Jammu–Akhnoor–Poonch railway line. These extensions will not only bolster defense logistics but also integrate the Pir Panjal region into India’s economic mainstream.
The Railways also plan to install solar-powered signaling systems, upgrade existing stations with world-class amenities, and introduce smart ticketing options throughout J&K.
Symbolic Coin Launch: Rs 100 Coin Commemorates Chenab Bridge
As a tribute to this engineering marvel, PM Modi also unveiled a Rs 100 commemorative coin dedicated to the Chenab Bridge. Minted by the Kolkata Mint, the coin features:
- Front Side: Image of Chenab Bridge with “Chenab Bridge 2025”
- Back Side: Ashoka Pillar with denomination ‘100’
- Metal Composition: 50% Silver, 40% Copper, 5% Nickel, 5% Zinc
- Weight: 35 grams
This limited-edition coin serves as a symbol of India’s engineering excellence and commitment to connectivity in the most challenging terrains.
The launch of the Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express and the monumental progress of the USBRL project reflect a bold step forward in integrating Jammu & Kashmir with India’s core infrastructure. From reducing travel time to opening economic avenues and symbolically linking the region with a commemorative Rs 100 coin, this day will be remembered as a milestone in India’s developmental journey.
