Travelling to Kashmir for your holidays just got a lot easier. The highly anticipated direct train service from Kashmir to Delhi is launching in January 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the remaining 17 km of the 272 km long Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project on January 26, specifically the section between Reasi and Katra. The Kashmir Valley is anticipating a surge in tourism following the initiation of the service, as it will provide a cost-effective and convenient mode of transport to the Valley.
Imagine covering 800 km in under 13 hours. The proposed 62 km track, with 45 km already completed, connects Katra and Sangaldan. Currently, trial runs are underway on the segment between Sangaldan and Reasi.
The train journey promises to be fascinating as it traverses some of the most challenging terrain in the Himalayas. This railway track features more bridges and tunnels than any other in India, with approximately 931 bridges and 38 tunnels. Among these is the Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel, the longest train tunnel stretches 11.21 kilometres. The route also includes the world’s highest bridge, which spans the Chenab River and stands 359 meters tall, making it even taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
This vital connection will bring Srinagar closer to the heart of India, transforming travel and trade opportunities for the region. Earlier this year, senior railway officers conducted a thorough three-day inspection of the railway track linking Sangaldan and Reasi from June 26 to 28.
Remarkable strides have been achieved on the remaining 17 kilometres, including four stations between Reasi and Katra, plus the essential T33 tunnel. With the finishing touches nearing completion, this crucial section is all set for trial runs by December 20, as confirmed by trusted sources. This will enhance connectivity and supercharge regional development.
The new railway line is set to greatly enhance the current transportation situation in Kashmir. Currently, the region has limited railway connectivity, with trains operating between Sangaldan and Banihal in the Jammu division and between Srinagar and Baramulla in the Valley. From the Jammu side, trains run up to Udhampur and Katra, providing a connection to the Indian Railways network across India.
After two decades of dedicated effort, the highly anticipated Srinagar-New Delhi rail link is set to transform travel in the region. The USBRL Project, approved by the government of P.V. Narasimha Rao in 1995, represents a significant milestone in connectivity. The first phase, which includes the 118-km Baramulla-Qazigund section, has been completed. In 2013, this connection extended to Banihal in the Jammu division, a milestone celebrated by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. In 2014, the railway connection between Udhampur and Katra was inaugurated, further improving access to the area. Most recently, the Banihal to Sangaldan route opened in February of this year, enhancing the region's transport network. With an investment exceeding Rs 35,000 crore, the completion of this project will finally provide Kashmir with direct Vande Bharat trains to Delhi starting this January. This development is expected to revolutionise travel and promote greater economic opportunities for the people of the valley.
Not only does the new train service provide an exciting opportunity for travellers eager to witness the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir, but it also revolutionises the transport of valuable goods such as apples, dry fruits, pashmina shawls, and handicrafts. This development will ensure that these products reach their destinations faster and cheaper. Furthermore, the transportation expenses for essential items coming into the valley from other parts of the country are poised to drop significantly, benefiting consumers and local businesses. Kashmir is known for its exceptional variety of exquisite crafts, including handwoven carpets, intricate woodwork, papier-mâché items, willow cricket bats, saffron, and dried fruits. The 15th-century ruler Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin, known as 'Budshah,' is often credited with introducing sophisticated carpet weaving and papier-mâché techniques. Additionally, Persian and Turkish artists have significantly influenced local handicrafts. Srinagar was designated as a ‘World Craft City’ by the World Craft Council, gaining international recognition for the skill and dedication of its local artisans in preserving cultural heritage.