PM Modi Flags Off Amritsar–Katra Vande Bharat Express

SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday flagged off the Amritsar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express, marking a major addition to the region’s transport network.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for dedicating the high-speed train service, saying it will significantly ease travel for pilgrims visiting the shrine and help accelerate local economic growth.

“The new Vande Bharat Train will ensure ease of travel for devotees of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and spur the growth momentum of the local economy,” LG Sinha said, noting that Jammu and Kashmir’s transport infrastructure, particularly railways, has witnessed unprecedented development under the Prime Minister’s leadership.

Highlighting recent progress, the LG said that the arrival of the first freight train from Punjab to Anantnag on August 9 marked a milestone for the Kashmir Valley’s transport infrastructure and trade.

The 26406 Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Amritsar Vande Bharat Express will depart Katra at 6:40 a.m. and arrive in Amritsar at 12:20 p.m. the same day. The return service, 26405 Amritsar–Katra Vande Bharat Express, will leave Amritsar at 4:25 p.m. and reach Katra at 10:00 p.m. The service will operate six days a week, excluding Tuesdays.

Railway officials say the semi-high-speed train is expected to improve connectivity between the two key destinations, attracting both pilgrims and tourists, while also supporting the local hospitality and service sectors.