Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on Friday to unveil two major milestones in India’s rail infrastructure. These include the inauguration of the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, and the official launch of Vande Bharat Express services between Katra and Srinagar. In a historic tribute, PM Modi will also release a Rs 100 commemorative coin in honour of the Chenab Bridge.

Chenab Bridge: Symbol of Engineering Excellence

The Chenab Bridge stands as a marvel of modern engineering, soaring 359 meters above the riverbed. Spanning the Chenab River in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, this iconic structure forms a crucial part of the Jammu–Srinagar Railway Line, connecting Kashmir to the rest of India.

To commemorate this landmark achievement, the government is releasing a special edition Rs 100 coin that celebrates the bridge’s completion and its significance in India’s infrastructural history.

Read also: PM Modi Flags Off Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express, Marking A Historic Day For Indian Railways

Details of the Rs 100 Commemorative Coin for Chenab Bridge Inauguration

According to renowned numismatist Sudhir Lunawat, the Rs 100 coin features a detailed image of the Chenab Bridge. The design elements reflect national pride and engineering prowess:

• Front Side:
  • Top Inscription: “Jammu-Srinagar Railway Line” in Hindi
  • Bottom Inscription: “Jammu-Srinagar Railway Line” in English
  • Central Feature: Image of the Chenab Bridge
  • Above the Image: “Chenab Bridge 2025” in both Hindi and English
• Reverse Side:
  • Central Symbol: Ashoka Pillar emblem
  • Denomination: ‘100’ printed below the emblem
  • Left Side: “भारत” (Bharat in Hindi)
  • Right Side: “India”

The coin has been minted at the Kolkata Mint under the authority of the Government of India. Weighing 35 grams, it’s crafted from a premium alloy—50% silver, 40% copper, 5% nickel, and 5% zinc—marking it a valuable collector’s item and a historic artifact.

Read also : Maharaja Hari Singh’s Rail Dream Realized: Train to Kashmir Now a Reality

Vande Bharat Express Between Katra and Srinagar: Timings and Details

Coinciding with the Chenab Bridge inauguration is the launch of commercial operations for the Vande Bharat Express, starting June 7, 2025. The train promises a fast, modern, and comfortable journey between Katra and Srinagar, cutting travel time significantly.

Ticket Classes and Pricing

The train will operate with two classes of seating:

• Chair Car (CC): ₹715 per ticket
• Executive Class (EC): ₹1,320 per ticket

Passengers can book tickets through the IRCTC platform following the train’s official launch.

Train Schedule and Frequency

There will be two Vande Bharat train sets making a total of four trips per day. Below is the initial schedule:

• First Train:
  • Departs from Katra at 8:10 AM, arrives in Srinagar at 11:08 AM
  • Returns from Srinagar at 2:00 PM, arrives in Katra at 4:58 PM
  • No service on Tuesdays
• Second Train:
  • Departs from Katra at 2:55 PM, reaches Srinagar at 5:53 PM
  • Returns from Srinagar the next day at 8:00 AM
  • No service on Wednesdays

Currently, the trains will only stop at Banihal, with additional stops to be determined in the near future.

A Leap Forward for Jammu–Kashmir Rail Connectivity

This launch marks a major leap in enhancing mobility and economic integration for the region. With the Chenab Bridge making all-weather, all-terrain railway access possible and the Vande Bharat Express offering high-speed comfort, the region is poised for transformation.

The symbolic release of the Rs 100 coin not only honors this engineering feat but also reflects the nation’s commitment to strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s connectivity and development.

Read also: Vande Bharat Express Timings for Jammu and Srinagar Announced

Key Highlights at a Glance

• Rs 100 commemorative coin launched by PM Modi features the Chenab Bridge
• Minted in Kolkata, contains 50% silver, weighs 35 grams
• Chenab Bridge: World’s highest railway arch bridge
• Vande Bharat Express starts service from June 7, connects Katra to Srinagar
• Tickets available on IRCTC
• Journey duration: Approx. 3 hours
• Current stop: Banihal
• Future stations to be added based on demand

With these developments, India celebrates not only its engineering might but also a vision of inclusive growth. The Rs 100 coin stands as a timeless tribute to the Chenab Bridge, while the Vande Bharat Express ushers in a new era of modern travel in Kashmir.