7 things about the first passenger train to Srinagar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the first passenger train to Srinagar. Vande Bharat Express from Katra to Srinagar will be serviceable from June 7 (Saturday).

PM Modi has a jam-packed schedule in the region. From inaugurating the Chenab bridge to a new Vande Bharat train service, the prime minister will visit Jammu and Kashmir for the first time since the Pahalgam attack on April 22.

Here’s all you need to know about the train service:

• Two Vande Bharat Train sets will make four trips during the day between Katra and Srinagar

• The first train, number 26401, will commence from Katra at 8:10 am and reach Srinagar at 11:08 am. The same train will return in the afternoon from Srinagar at 2:00 PM and reach Karta at 4:58 PM

• Till now, there was only a road link from Jammu, which is prone to disruptions caused by monsoon rains

• Journey time will be around three hours with morning and afternoon services

• The railway ministry said that Vande Bharat trains on this route are specially designed with anti-freezing technology to prevent freezing of water and bio-toilets in extreme cold

• The train coaches are equipped with heating systems to withstand sub-zero temperatures in Srinagar, 360-degree rotating seats, and charging points for enhanced passenger comfort. Designed to operate smoothly despite snow, freezing weather, and harsh conditions, these trains ensure continuous and reliable service.

• Train fares will range from Rs 700 to Rs 1,300, with chair cars at Rs 715 and executive class at Rs 1,320