The Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express has reportedly touched nearly 100 kmph while crossing the Chenab Railway Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district, marking the first time the train has reached that speed on the route.
The development follows an increase in the maximum permissible speed on the 111-km broad gauge section between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Banihal.
Speed limit raised to 100 kmph
The Railway Ministry approved the increase after the route met the required safety conditions, officials said.
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The maximum permissible speed was earlier 85 kmph between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Sangaldan, and 75 kmph between Sangaldan and Banihal.
The Vande Bharat Express subsequently reached close to 100 kmph on the newly upgraded section, according to news agency ANI.
Faster travel between Jammu and Kashmir
Uchit Singhal, senior divisional commercial manager, Jammu, said the higher speed would reduce travel time while improving connectivity across the region.
"The increase in speed will not only reduce travel time, but will also strengthen the connectivity of Jammu-Kashmir. Passengers will get faster, safer and more comfortable travel facilities. This will also boost tourism, trade and economic activities in the region. Railways remains continuously committed to the safety and convenience of passengers," he told PTI.
The higher speed is expected to improve train movement along the Katra-Banihal section, which forms an important part of the rail link connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country.
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Route crosses challenging terrain
The 111-km Katra-Banihal stretch is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project and passes through difficult terrain in the Pir Panjal and lower Himalayan ranges.
The route includes deep valleys, steep slopes, major rivers and complex geological formations.
Among its key engineering structures is the Chenab Railway Bridge near Reasi, built across the Chenab River. The section also features the Anji Khad Railway Bridge, described as India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
The route has 33 tunnels, adding to the engineering challenges involved in building and operating the railway line.
With the speed limit now raised to 100 kmph, the latest development is expected to improve the efficiency of train operations on the Katra-Banihal section.