Noida: The first trial run of the specially designed Vande Bharat Express train between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar Railway Station was successful. Indian Railways shared the information about its successful trial on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
This train will pass through Chenab Bridge in its journey, which is the world’s highest rail bridge. Special Vande Bharat also passed through Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge. The train stopped for some time in Jammu at around 11:30 am, where people raised slogans to welcome it.
According to the Railways, its commercial operation started after the completion of the trial. Very soon, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi (PM Narendra Modi) will flag off the first journey of this train from Katra, although its date has not been announced yet.
Vande Bharat train is different from other Vande Bharat
Vande Bharat train running between Katra to Srinagar has been specially designed. This train will run at its full speed in the challenging winter of Jammu and Kashmir. Many special facilities have also been given in this train as compared to other Vande Bharat Express trains running in other parts of India.
Advanced heating systems
According to the Railways, it includes advanced heating systems, which prevent water and bio-toilet tanks from freezing. Along with this, it also provides hot air for the vacuum system. Apart from this, the special Vande Bharat also has an air brake system, which will ensure smooth operation even in zero-degree temperatures. The train also has heating elements embedded in the windshield, which automatically defrost the driver’s front lookout glass. These facilities will ensure clear visibility even in severe cold.
Kashmir will get better connectivity with the country
Along with this, the train is also equipped with other facilities of existing Vande Bharat trains like an air-conditioned coach, automatic gate and mobile charging socket. In a statement issued by the Indian Railways, it has been said that the special Vande Bharat is a symbol of India’s commitment to bridging the geographical and economic gap between Jammu and Kashmir. This train is an important step towards completing the 272 km long Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project, which aims to connect the Kashmir Valley to the wider Indian railway network.