In view of an exceptionally heavy passenger rush between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SMVDK) and Srinagar (SINA) due to the closure of roads and suspension of flights amid inclement weather, the Railway authorities have proposed to operate a reserved special train on January 27 and 28, 2026.According to official communication issued dated January 24, and as per the instructions of the Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (Sr. DCM), Jammu, the special train will run on the path of the non-running Vande Bharat Express to ensure continued rail connectivity on the busy Katra–Srinagar section.
The reserved special train will operate between SVDK–SINA–SVDK, with an en-route stoppage at Banihal (BAHL), ensuring that at least two train services remain available on these dates.
Railway authorities have requested the Railway Protection Force (RPF) to provide necessary security clearance for the smooth operation of the reserved special train.
The move is expected to provide significant relief to stranded passengers and ease congestion on the Katra–Srinagar rail corridor during the ongoing spell of adverse weather.
