SRINAGAR: The Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express has carried over 1,01,050 passengers within 22 days of commencing commercial operations, marking a significant development in rail connectivity between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley.
According to an official statement, the indigenous semi-high-speed train began regular services on May 2, 2026, following its inauguration by the Union Railway Minister on April 30. Since its launch, it has emerged as a widely preferred travel option, strengthening rail connectivity in the region.
The development is being regarded as an important milestone for Jammu and Kashmir, where road travel between Jammu and Srinagar has traditionally relied on National Highway-44, which is often affected by landslides, snowfall and adverse weather conditions.
Over the 22-day operational period, the service has demonstrated consistent punctuality and reliability, offering passengers a more comfortable and dependable all-weather alternative to road transport.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal said the response from passengers reflects strong public trust in the service. He noted that carrying more than one lakh one thousand fifty passengers in such a short time is a matter of pride for Northern Railway and reflects its focus on improving passenger services.
He added that travellers have responded positively to the train’s comfort, safety standards, cleanliness and reduced travel fatigue on the Jammu–Srinagar route. He further stated that maintaining punctuality and ensuring passenger safety remain key priorities for the railways.
Officials said the service has strengthened year-round connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country, while also contributing to growth in tourism and trade. Improved rail connectivity is expected to support faster movement of local products such as apples and handicrafts to markets across India, benefiting regional businesses.
The successful operation of the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is being viewed as a step towards fulfilling the long-standing objective of establishing a reliable all-weather rail link between the Kashmir Valley and the national railway network.
