PM Modi Launches 3 Vande Bharat Trains & First Freight Train to Kashmir – A Historic Leap for Connectivity!
Jammu & Kashmir witnessed a landmark day in transportation history as Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off three new Vande Bharat Express trains including train from Golden Temple to Vaishno Devi and celebrated the arrival of the first-ever freight train to the Kashmir Valley. The event marks a significant step toward boosting regional connectivity, economic growth, and tourism in Northern India.
Three New Vande Bharat Express Trains Flagged Off
In a grand ceremony, PM Modi personally inaugurated the much-awaited Bengaluru–Belagavi Vande Bharat Express. Two more services—the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Amritsar Vande Bharat and Ajni (Nagpur)–Pune Vande Bharat—were launched virtually.
Officials hailed this as a major upgrade in speed, comfort, and efficiency for passengers. The Katra–Amritsar service becomes the fifth Vande Bharat train in Jammu & Kashmir, complementing existing routes between New Delhi, Katra, and Srinagar.
Katra–Amritsar: Pilgrimage & Tourism Boost
The Katra–Amritsar Vande Bharat Express will run six days a week, except Tuesdays. Train No. 26406 departs from Katra at 6:40 am, reaching Amritsar by 12:20 pm, with halts at Jammu, Pathankot Cantt, Jalandhar City, and Vyas. The return train (26405) leaves Amritsar at 4:25 pm, reaching Katra by 10 pm.
This service directly benefits pilgrims traveling to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine from Punjab and those from Jammu heading to Amritsar’s Golden Temple. Faster travel times mean more convenience for devotees and tourists alike.
Read also: Vaishno Devi Train Services: Complete Travel Guide for Pilgrims
First Freight Train Arrives in Kashmir – A Game-Changer
In a historic first, a freight train carrying 21 wagons of cement traveled 600 km from Rupnagar, Punjab, to Anantnag in South Kashmir. This development links Kashmir directly to the national freight network, lowering transportation costs and accelerating infrastructure projects in the valley.
The journey, completed in under 18 hours, showcased the efficiency of the Indian Railways’ modern logistics. The cement will fuel the construction of roads, bridges, housing, and public infrastructure—paving the way for faster development in the region.
PM Modi described the day as “a great day for commerce and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir”. Locals and officials echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the economic benefits for industries, especially horticulture. Lower transport costs will make it easier for farmers and traders to send produce and goods across India.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that this milestone will transform logistics, reduce costs, and boost trade in Kashmir, integrating it more deeply with national markets.
Beyond transportation, these launches symbolize unity, growth, and modernization. The arrival of the freight train is not just a logistical achievement—it’s a statement that Kashmir is ready for a new era of connectivity. By linking the region more efficiently to the rest of India, these developments will strengthen both economic prosperity and cultural exchange.
In essence, August 9, 2025, will be remembered as a defining moment for Jammu & Kashmir—when trains became more than a mode of travel, turning into engines of growth, faith, and unity.
