NEW DELHI – The recently launched Jammu Tawi–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express has emerged as a massive success, ferrying 44,727 passengers within the first ten days of its regularized service. Following the historic inauguration of the 272-km USBRL link in 2025, the augmented 20-coach service is now being hailed as the new lifeline of Jammu and Kashmir.
The demand for the corridor has consistently exceeded expectations, with a maiden week ridership of 28,762 passengers.
Performance Highlights:
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Capacity Surge: Transitioning from 8 to 20 coaches, the train continues to run at near-full capacity, peaking at 98.21% occupancy on Sunday, May 10.
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Frequency: Two pairs of services (Train Nos. 26401/02 and 26403/04) ensure up to four daily services on the corridor, providing reliable connectivity for tourists, pilgrims, and locals.
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All-Weather Resilience: Engineered to withstand temperatures as low as minus 20°C, the Vande Bharat offers a dependable alternative to the National Highway, which is frequently blocked by snow and landslides.
Travel Revolution: Faster and More Affordable
The rail link has drastically altered the logistics of visiting the Valley. Travelers can now cross the engineering marvels of the Chenab and Anji Khad bridges in under five hours.
| Feature | Vande Bharat Express | Alternative (Air/Road) |
| Cost | Most affordable (meals included) | Flights and private taxis are significantly more expensive |
| Duration | Under 5 hours | Subject to flight delays or highway disruptions |
| Experience | Scenic Himalayan tunnels & bridges | Limited views/challenging terrain |
Economic and Tourism Impact
Timed for the peak summer season, the service is expected to catalyze a tourism boom in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar. Indian Railways has intentionally priced tickets below operational costs to ensure that “Paradise on Earth” remains accessible to all. As the summer progresses, officials expect ridership to scale even higher, cementing the Vande Bharat’s role in the regional economy.
