Kashmir is set to get direct train connectivity to Indian metro stations as Northern Railway accelerates network expansion with new stations and high-speed services.

Posted on October 30, 2025

Kashmir is on the verge of a historic transport boom as Northern Railway is accelerating efforts to establish it Direct train connectivity between the valley and major Indian metro stations. After the completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway (USBRL) and the successful launch of Vande Bharat services on the Srinagar-Katra route, the railway network in Union Territory is now entering its next phase of expansion. New stations such as RESI are added as operations cease, security and technical assessments are conducted, and long-distance routing plans are implementedlaying the foundation for the first direct passenger trains in Kashmir, connecting it seamlessly with the rest of the country.

Northern Railway is gearing up for one of the most significant connectivity breakthroughs in India’s transport history as it intensifies preparations Launching direct train services between Kashmir and other major Indian states. This development comes after the successful completion of Udhampur, Srinagar and Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL)a massive engineering project that achieved full operating status in June. The network now connects the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India via rail for the first time.

This achievement was followed by the launch Two Vande Bharat Express semi-high-speed trains between Katra and Srinagar, marking the start of modern railway operations in the hilly terrain of the Union Territory. However, Northern Railway has now turned its attention towards a much broader national goal: Establishing seamless long distance rail connectivity from Kashmir to cities like Delhi, Mumbai etc.

Reasi station has been added as a second stop on the Vande Bharat route

To improve regional mobility within Jammu and Kashmir, the Northern Railway introduced A Stop for 2 minutes at Recy Railway Station For Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat trains (Train No. 26401 and 26402). This moratorium has been approved On a one-month trial basis After evaluating logistical feasibility and passenger demand.

Train stopping schedule in Riasi

Before this change, there was only one stop on this elite road—BanihalAn important mountain crossing point. The decision to add Reasi as a stop was influenced by the growing importance of the station as a stop Transport axisHer turn District headquartersand the growing demand from local communities for improved rail access.

The authorities explained that the continuation of the moratorium will not be completed until after the review Passenger response, passenger data, and economic feasibility During trial run.

Strategic enhancement of Hajj and tourism corridors

Reasi district is one of the most visited districts in North India due to its global fame Shrine of Mata Vaishno DeviWhich attracts millions of pilgrims annually. The new train stop will make travel much easier for devotees coming from all over the country and reduce road congestion.

The region is also home to some of India’s most ambitious infrastructure landmarks, including:

• Chenab Railway Bridge – The longest railway bridge in the world, reaching a height of 359 meters above the riverbed.
• Angi Khad Bridge – The first cable-stayed railway bridge in India, located between Katra and Reasi.

Railway officials expect it to spur a new strike Religious tourism, adventure tourism, and engineering tourism. Proposals are being studied for submission Dedicated tourist train Between Reasi and important landmarks along the railway corridor in Kashmir to support local economic development and generate employment opportunities.

Railways ensure reliable transportation in difficult mountainous terrain

The rugged Himalayan terrain poses operational difficulties due to frequent landslides, snowfall and monsoon rains. Despite these challenges, Northern Railway continues to enhance transport reliability in the Union Territory. When heavy monsoon rains disrupted traffic on the national highway in August and September, A A special relief train service was operated between Banihal and Katra To ensure uninterrupted passenger movement.

Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Service has been widely appreciated for:

• Reduce travel time and specific operations
• Modern amenities Including reclining seats and on-board systems
• Enhance passenger comfort Compared to traditional trains
• Security and speed features Suitable for long trips

This rail link has greatly improved travel stability in the region and paved the way for direct interstate train operations.

Direct trains between Kashmir and Indian cities coming soon

Northern Railway confirmed that detailed planning of the work is underway Long distance trains from Kashmir to major Indian states. These trains are likely to connect Kashmir with:

• National Capital Region (Delhi)
• Northern industrial centers
• Western commercial centers
• Central and Eastern India (later stages)

You will support this move Freight traffic, agricultural distribution, student migration, military logistics, and interstate tourism. This would enhance national integration, enhance trade, and reduce dependence on long-distance land transportation via mountain highways.

Symbol of the new era of communication

The railway expansion in Kashmir is more than just an engineering feat – it represents a major achievement Historical transformation in regional integration and development. The railway network is reshaping livelihoods, improving transportation equity, and connecting remote Himalayan communities to the mainstream economy.

With each milestone – from digging tunnels through the Pir Panjal mountain range to building world-record bridges – the Northern Railway is moving closer to completion. India’s most challenging railway mission so far. The next phase of direct train connection is expected to be launched A new era of growth and mobility For Jammu and Kashmir.