SRINAGAR: In view of the unusually heavy passenger rush between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SMVDK) and Srinagar (SINA) following road closures and suspension of flight operations due to adverse weather, the Railways have proposed operating a reserved special train on January 27 and 28, 2026.
As per an official communication, the special service will operate under the directions of the Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (Sr DCM), Jammu. The train will run on the path of the non-operational Vande Bharat Express to maintain rail connectivity on the busy Katra–Srinagar section.
The reserved special train will operate between SMVDK and Srinagar in both directions, with a scheduled halt at Banihal, ensuring the availability of at least two train services on the route during the specified dates.
Railway authorities have sought security clearance from the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to facilitate the smooth operation of the special service.
Officials said the initiative is expected to provide relief to stranded passengers and help ease congestion on the Katra–Srinagar rail corridor amid the ongoing spell of inclement weather.
