In a landmark moment for Indian Railways and the Kashmir Valley, the country바카라s first-ever Vande Bharat Express to Srinagar was flagged off today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video link, marking the formal integration of Kashmir into the national high-speed rail network for the first time in history.
The train, which will run between New Delhi and Srinagar, is being hailed as a triumph of engineering, diplomacy, and development. It will cover the 1,200-kilometre stretch in just over 11 hours, slicing down travel time by nearly 50%, and offering passengers a luxurious, high-speed, and secure journey through some of the country바카라s most challenging terrain.
Route and Significance
The route of the Vande Bharat train includes the Banihal-Qazigund railway tunnel, the 11.2-km-long marvel under the Pir Panjal range, and passes over the Chenab Rail Bridge바카라the world바카라s highest railway arch bridge. The train stops at major cities including Jammu, Udhampur, Anantnag, and Qazigund, significantly enhancing accessibility to the region.
바카라This is not just a train; it is a symbol of national unity and a promise of progress for Jammu and Kashmir,바카라 said PM Modi during the virtual inauguration.
Key Features
Advanced Speed and Performance:
Equipped to run at a top speed of 160 km/h, the train maintains an average speed of 110바카라120 km/h, depending on the terrain. The coaches are stabilized for sharp curves and mountainous routes.
Ultra-Modern Coaches:
Passengers can enjoy airline-style reclining seats, automatic climate control, and silent electric doors. Executive Class coaches include rotating seats and panoramic windows for scenic viewing.
Winterized for the Valley:
The train is specially designed for harsh winters, with heated floors, anti-fog windows, and snow-resilient brake systems바카라a first in Indian railway history.
Cutting-edge Safety:
The train is equipped with the Kavach indigenous anti-collision system, fire alarms, CCTV monitoring, and emergency communication devices in every coach.
Digital and Passenger-Friendly:
With onboard Wi-Fi, touchscreen infotainment systems, GPS-based real-time updates, and USB charging at every seat, the train redefines rail travel.
Eco-Conscious Design:
Built with regenerative braking and energy-efficient lighting, the train significantly reduces carbon footprint compared to older diesel-run services.
Made in India
Manufactured entirely at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, this train features 100% Indian components, including newly developed lightweight aluminum-bodied coaches, making it faster, more energy-efficient, and easier to maintain.
The Vande Bharat Express to Srinagar stands as a monumental achievement바카라bridging not just physical distance but also fostering emotional, economic, and national unity.
바카라This train connects hearts and homes. It carries the aspirations of millions,바카라 said Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at the event.
As the gleaming white-and-blue train disappeared into the Kashmiri valley바카라s misty horizon, it left behind more than just tracks바카라it laid the foundation for a new chapter in India's journey forward.
