Vande Bharat Express with heating system and other features to face Kashmir’s cold to run on new Srinagar to Delhi route starting from 26 Jan
The Indian Railways has unveiled a groundbreaking addition to its fleet—the Vande Bharat Express specially engineered to endure the harsh winters of Jammu & Kashmir. Designed to operate seamlessly on the Katra-Srinagar rail route, this train aims to revolutionize travel in the region, bridging gaps and fostering stronger connections between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country.
Tailored for Extreme Weather Conditions
Stationed at the Shakurbasti coaching depot in New Delhi, this version of the Vande Bharat Express is packed with features to tackle the sub-zero temperatures and snowy conditions typical of the Kashmir Valley.
Railway officials have emphasized the train’s winter-specific enhancements:
Advanced Heating Systems: These prevent the freezing of water tanks and bio-toilets, while also supplying warm air to the vacuum systems and laboratories.
Heated Windshields: Embedded heating elements ensure the driver’s visibility is not compromised by frost or ice.
Air Brake Optimization: Adjustments to the air brake systems ensure smooth and reliable operations even in extreme cold.
Coach Heating: Special heaters keep the entire coach warm and comfortable for passengers, regardless of external conditions.
Anti-Freeze Water Systems: Silicon pads and other heating elements maintain the functionality of water systems during sub-zero weather.
Additionally, the windshield has been designed to be three times tougher than usual, ensuring durability against heavy snowfall.
A Route of Unmatched Significance
The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is a key element of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link, a connectivity project of national importance. This rail route incorporates monumental engineering feats, such as:
- The Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest rail bridge at 359 meters above the river.
- The Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
- Tunnel T33, a critical section of the route, where rail track construction has been successfully completed.
With these developments, the region is now poised for a new era of rail connectivity.
Travel Schedule and Connectivity
The train is expected to run on a convenient timetable, departing from Katra at 8:10 a.m. and arriving in Srinagar by 11:20 a.m. On the return leg, it will leave Srinagar at 12:45 p.m. and reach Katra by 3:05 p.m.
In addition to the Vande Bharat Express, two Mail Express trains with flexible timings will operate daily on the same route, offering passengers additional options. For travelers from Delhi, a direct rail link will enable seamless connectivity, with trains departing Delhi at 7:00 p.m. and arriving in Srinagar by 8:00 p.m. the next day.
A Boost for the Region
This development is expected to have far-reaching impacts on the Kashmir Valley:
Tourism: By making the region more accessible, the train is set to attract more visitors to Kashmir’s scenic beauty.
Trade and Horticulture: Improved transportation will facilitate the movement of goods, especially horticultural products, a cornerstone of the local economy.
Education and Business: Easier access to major cities like Delhi will unlock opportunities for students and professionals.
Awaiting the Start of Operations
While the exact date for the train’s operations has not yet been finalized, the Railway Board has assured that all necessary preparations, including infrastructure and safety inspections, have been completed. Officials have confirmed that the iconic Chenab Bridge and the Anji Khad Bridge are ready, along with other critical sections of the rail line.
When launched, the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express will symbolize not just engineering ingenuity but also India’s commitment to integrating the Kashmir Valley more deeply into the national framework.
