In a major boost to rail connectivity in Jammu & Kashmir, the Northern Railway has announced the extension of Train No. 26401/26402 SVDK-SINA Vande Bharat Express up to Jammu Tawi (JAT) with effect from March 1, 2026. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that, as per the official notification issued by the Railway Headquarters, the prestigious Vande Bharat Express, which was earlier operating between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar (SINA), will now originate from and terminate at Jammu Tawi, thereby enhancing passenger convenience and regional accessibility.

The train No. 26401 (JAT-SINA) will depart Jammu Tawi Railway Station at 0615 hours and reach Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Karta at 0808 hours, Reasi station at 0830 hours, and Banihal station at 0958 hours. The Train will halt at every station for 2 minutes and finally reach Srinagar station at 1110 hours. The train No. 26402 (SINA-JAT) will depart Srinagar station at 1400 hours and reach Banihal station at 1458 hours, Reasi station at 1634 hours, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 1700 hours and finally Jammu Railway Station at 1850 hours. The total journey time will be approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes in the up direction and 4 hours and 50 minutes in the down direction.

In a significant operational enhancement, the existing 8 Car Vande Bharat rake will be replaced with a 20 Car Vande Bharat rake, substantially increasing seating capacity and accommodating growing passenger demand on this vital route. Railway authorities have directed all concerned divisions to ensure wide publicity through station notice boards, public address systems, and electronic and print media so that passengers are adequately informed about the changes. The extension of the Vande Bharat Express up to Jammu Tawi is expected to significantly benefit commuters, tourists, and pilgrims travelling to the Kashmir Valley, while further strengthening rail connectivity in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.