Srinagar, Feb 16 : The inauguration of the Vande Bharat train, which was scheduled to be launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 17, has been postponed.
According to official sources speaking to JKNS, the Vande Bharat train service from Katra to Srinagar, planned to be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 17, 2025, has been delayed.
Sources also mentioned that there was no formal announcement regarding the inauguration earlier, and the reports circulating were not officially confirmed.
Earlier, it was reported that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was expected to inaugurate the eagerly awaited Vande Bharat train service from Katra to Srinagar on February 17.
The train’s route includes impressive engineering structures such as the Anji Khad Bridge, featuring a 331-meter-high pylon, and the Chenab Bridge, which stands at 359 meters, making it the tallest railway bridge globally, even taller than the Eiffel Tower. These bridges not only improve connectivity but also demonstrate India’s advancements in technology and infrastructure, according to an official.
The Vande Bharat train is designed to function smoothly even in extreme winter conditions, enduring temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius, ensuring uninterrupted service during harsh cold weather.
Operating on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), the train will cover the 150-kilometer journey between the starting and ending stations in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with key stops at Reasi and Banihal, as per an official statement.