Srinagar: The trial run of the first Vande Bharat Express train from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station, Katra, to Budgam has been successfully completed, railway officials said.
Officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that one-way trial run of the Vande Bharat Express train was completed today. “The train arrived in the Jammu Division on Friday and reached Srinagar today.”
Vande Bharat Express ICF rakes 49 and 80 have been nominated for commercial operation in the USBRL section. “These Vande Bharat Express trains are uniquely designed for cold conditions during the winter season with feature advanced technologies to ensure comfort, safety, and reliability,” officials said.
The train also passed through the iconic Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, and the Chenab Bridge, which is the world’s highest railway bridge.
Specially designed to withstand the cold climate of the Kashmir Valley, this is the third Vande Bharat train introduced for Jammu & Kashmir, but the first to serve the Kashmir Valley. The Northern Railway zone will oversee its operations and maintenance.
The train includes advanced heating systems to prevent the freezing of water and bio-toilet tanks. It also features a unique air-brake system and warm air circulation to ensure smooth operation in sub-zero temperatures.
Additional modifications include embedded heating elements in the windshield to clear frost during harsh winters. Triple-layered windscreens with heating filaments provide clear visibility for the driver, even during snowfall. These enhancements make the train capable of operating efficiently in temperatures as low as -30°C.
The Railways has completed the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, spanning 272 kilometers—(KNO)
