The state-of-the-art Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express has emerged as preferred, reliable and all-weather option, as over one lakh passengers have opted it to travel between the two capitals of J&K since the commencement of its commercial operations on May 2, 2026.“In a historic milestone for Indian Railways and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express has successfully carried 1,01,050 passengers within just 22 days of its commercial operations, reaffirming its growing popularity as a fast, safe and reliable transport link between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley,” stated Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division.“It commenced regular commercial operations on May 2, 2026, after being flagged off by the Union Railway Minister on April 30. Since then, the Vande Bharat Express has rapidly emerged as a preferred mode of travel for passengers, setting a new benchmark in seamless rail connectivity in the region,” he said.
The official said that the achievement was being viewed as a landmark moment in the history of rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, where travel between Jammu and Srinagar traditionally depended on National Highway-44, frequently disrupted by landslides, snowfall and adverse weather conditions.
“Over the last 22 days, the train has maintained remarkable punctuality and operational reliability, providing commuters with a comfortable, efficient and dependable all-weather travel alternative,” he said.
Expressing satisfaction over the achievement, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Jammu, Uchit Singhal said the overwhelming public response reflected the trust passengers placed in the service.
“Carrying 1,01,050 in just 22 days is a moment of immense pride for Northern Railway. This remarkable figure is not merely a statistic but a reflection of our commitment to providing world-class rail infrastructure and services to the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Singhal maintained that passengers responded positively to the train’s comfort, hospitality, safety standards and travel efficiency, significantly reducing the fatigue traditionally associated with the Jammu–Srinagar journey.
“Our priority remains maintaining the highest standards of punctuality, cleanliness and passenger safety. We sincerely thank the people for making this service a success in such a short period,” he added.
Officials said the Vande Bharat Express not only strengthened year-round connectivity between the Kashmir valley and the rest of the country, but also gave a major boost to tourism and trade in the region.
“Improved rail connectivity is expected to facilitate faster transportation of Kashmir’s apple produce and handicrafts to markets across India, benefiting local industries and businesses,” they stated.