Umaisar Gull Ganie
Srinagar, Jan 25: The trial run of the first Vande Bharat Express train from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station Katra, to Budgam has been successfully completed, railway officials said.
Officials informed that the trial run of the Vande Bharat Express train was completed on Saturday along Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). They said the train arrived at Katra Railway Station on Friday, reached Srinagar on Saturday, and later returned back to Katra.
Vande Bharat Express ICF rakes 49 and 80 have been nominated for commercial operation in the USBRL section. “These Vande Bharat Express trains are uniquely designed for cold conditions during the winter season with feature advanced technologies to ensure comfort, safety, and reliability,” an official said.
Chief Area Manager of Srinagar Northern Railways, Saqib Yousuf, said the Prime Minister’s dream of connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country has come true. Vande Bharat train has reached the Kashmir valley.
“This train has been designed in such a way that it can run even in mountainous and snowy conditions,” he said, adding, “eating ducts have been installed in the toilets. Silicon heating tabs have been installed in the pipes and tanks so that the water does not freeze. This is a very modern train.”
The train also passed through the iconic Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, and the Chenab Bridge, which is the world’s highest railway bridge.
Specially designed to withstand the cold climate of the Kashmir Valley, this is the third Vande Bharat train introduced for Jammu & Kashmir, but the first to serve the Kashmir Valley. The Northern Railway zone will oversee its operations and maintenance.
The train includes advanced heating systems to prevent the freezing of water and bio-toilet tanks. It also features a unique air-brake system and warm air circulation to ensure smooth operation in sub-zero temperatures.
Additional modifications include embedded heating elements in the windshield to clear frost during harsh winters. Triple-layered windscreens with heating filaments provide clear visibility for the driver, even during snowfall. These enhancements make the train capable of operating efficiently in temperatures as low as -30°C.
Following the successful trial run, railway authorities are preparing to launch the commercial operation of the Vande Bharat Express. This new train service is expected to play a role in boosting tourism and ensuring more convenient travel.
“The Vande Bharat Express will not only make our travel easier but also bring more tourists to the valley, boosting our economy and culture,” said Ashiq Ahmad, a traveller.
The Railways has completed the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, spanning 272 kilometres.
