Weather Forces PM Modi to Cancel Kashmir Visit, Vande Bharat Flag-Off Delayed

Jammu: The much-anticipated launch of the first-ever Vande Bharat Express train service in Kashmir has been postponed, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to the Union Territory on April 19 has been deferred. The train was set to run between Katra and the Kashmir Valley, enhancing rail connectivity in the region.

PM Modi was also expected to inaugurate the final segment of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project—the Katra-Sangaldaan section. However, with the PM’s Kashmir tour postponed, both inauguration events have now been put on hold. No new date has been officially announced.

According to sources, adverse weather conditions predicted for April 18 and 19—especially in and around Katra—are believed to be the reason behind the Prime Minister’s rescheduling. The India Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rainfall in the region during this period.

First Trial Conducted in January

Indian Railways had successfully conducted a trial run of the Vande Bharat Express between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar stations on January 23. The train route includes engineering marvels like the Chenab Bridge—the world’s highest railway arch bridge—and the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge.

Once operational, the train will reduce travel time between Katra and Srinagar to just 3 hours, compared to the current 6-7 hours by road. Katra serves as the base for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage and the new rail link is expected to offer both convenience and speed for passengers.

Highlights of the Train

• Comfortable travel year-round with advanced temperature control in coaches
• 180-degree rotating seats in executive class for enhanced passenger experience
• Wi-Fi, infotainment systems, and charging ports onboard
• Modern safety features including CCTV surveillance, automatic doors, and bio-vacuum toilets

Covering a distance of approximately 272 kilometers, the route will provide passengers with a unique blend of scenic natural beauty and cutting-edge infrastructure. The journey is expected to be both memorable and efficient, reinforcing the government’s commitment to transforming rail travel in Jammu and Kashmir.