Jammu, May 23: Marking a historic milestone for Indian Railways and Jammu & Kashmir, the state-of-the-art Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express has successfully carried more than 1,01,050 passengers within just 22 days of its commercial operations, reaffirming its growing popularity as a fast, safe and reliable transport link between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley.
According to a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the indigenous semi-high-speed train commenced regular commercial operations on May 2, 2026, after being flagged off by the Union Railway Minister on April 30. Since then, the Vande Bharat Express has rapidly emerged as a preferred mode of travel for passengers, setting a new benchmark in seamless rail connectivity in the region.
The achievement is being viewed as a landmark moment in the history of rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, where travel between Jammu and Srinagar traditionally depended on National Highway-44, frequently disrupted by landslides, snowfall and adverse weather conditions.
Over the last 22 days, the train has maintained remarkable punctuality and operational reliability, providing commuters with a comfortable, efficient and dependable all-weather travel alternative.
Expressing satisfaction over the achievement, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal said the overwhelming public response reflects the trust passengers have placed in the service.
“Carrying over one lakh one thousand fifty passengers in just 22 days is a moment of immense pride for Northern Railway.
This remarkable figure is not merely a statistic, but a reflection of our commitment to providing world-class rail infrastructure and services to the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Singhal added that passengers have responded positively to the train’s comfort, hospitality, safety standards and travel efficiency, significantly reducing the fatigue traditionally associated with the Jammu–Srinagar journey.
“Our priority remains maintaining the highest standards of punctuality, cleanliness and passenger safety. We sincerely thank the people for making this service a success in such a short period,” he added.
Officials said the Vande Bharat Express has not only strengthened year-round connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country, but has also given a major boost to tourism and trade in the region.
Improved rail connectivity is expected to facilitate faster transportation of Kashmir’s apple produce and handicrafts to markets across India, benefiting local industries and businesses.
The successful operation of the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat is being hailed as the realization of a long-cherished dream of establishing a reliable all-weather rail link connecting the Valley with the national railway network. (KNO)
