The Northern Railway has extended the operation of the special train between Budgam and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra till July 2 to facilitate passengers in the Jammu division and to improve connectivity with Kashmir. The Train numbers 04688 and 04687 operating between Budgam and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra were originally scheduled to run from February 11 to March 3. The service will now continue from March 4 to July 2 without any change in its existing schedule, stoppages or coach composition.

The train will complete a total of 102 trips during the extended period. However, it will not run on Sundays owing to maintenance requirements. The decision was taken in view of passenger demand and feedback, particularly from the locals and tourists travelling between the Kashmir Valley and the pilgrimage town of Katra. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Railway Division, Uchit Singhal said the extension aims to provide a reliable and affordable travel option while reducing last-minute inconvenience for passengers.

The special train has been drawing attention for its Vista-dome coach, which offers panoramic views of the scenic route. Railway authorities have urged passengers to make use of the service. The passengers can check arrival and departure timings, as well as details of enroute stations, through the National Train Enquiry System. The extension is expected to benefit pilgrims visiting the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine and tourists travelling between the two regions during the peak summer season.