Vande Bharat: Kashmir valley's train service faces delay, new date to be announced soon

Jammu: The inauguration of Vande Bharat train service to Kashmir Valley has been postponed, officials said on Sunday.Earlier reports, which the officials said were unconfirmed, had said that the Vande Bharat train service between Udhampur, Srinagar and Baramulla would be inaugurated on February 17 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.The authorities have not given any official date for the inauguration of the train service while announcing the postponement.

Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link

The ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) is the most challenging railway project ever built by the Indian railways.The inauguration of the Vande Bharat Express train service connecting New Delhi to the Kashmir Valley has experienced multiple postponements. Initially slated for January 2025, the launch was deferred to February 17, 2025, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to officiate the ceremony. 

Significant infrastructure project

The Vande Bharat Express is designed to traverse the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), a significant infrastructure project aimed at integrating the Kashmir Valley with India's broader railway network. This route includes engineering marvels such as the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world's highest railway bridge, standing 359 meters above the riverbed—35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower. 

Technical evaluations before commencing operations

The train itself is specially equipped to handle the region's challenging weather conditions, featuring advanced heating systems to prevent freezing of water and bio-toilet tanks, as well as embedded heating elements in the windshield to ensure clear visibility during harsh winters. As of now, the exact date for the inauguration remains unconfirmed. Officials have emphasized the importance of thorough safety inspections and technical evaluations before commencing operations. The public is advised to await official announcements from Indian Railways for the finalized inauguration schedule.