Northern Railway has announced the extension of the Vande Bharat Express service, currently running between Srinagar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, up to Jammu Tawi starting March 1, 2026. The move will provide direct high-speed rail connectivity between Srinagar and Jammu.

The extended service will operate as Train 26401 Jammu Tawi–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express and Train 26402 Srinagar–Jammu Tawi Vande Bharat Express. The train composition will also be upgraded from the existing 8-coach rake to a 20-coach formation, significantly increasing passenger capacity.

As per the schedule, the train will depart Jammu Tawi at 6:15 am, halting at Bajalta, Ramnagar, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi, and Banihal before reaching Srinagar in the forenoon. The return service will leave Srinagar in the afternoon, reaching Jammu Tawi by evening.

Railway authorities said the extension is expected to boost regional mobility, support tourism, and facilitate convenient travel for pilgrims and tourists, marking a significant improvement in rail infrastructure and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir.