Jammu & Kashmir – India demonstrated its railway technology on Saturday with the first trial run of the Vande Bharat train from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra station to Srinagar station. This route includes the Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world, and the Anji Khad Bridge, which is India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
The Vande Bharat train is designed to handle the cold weather of the Kashmir Valley, ensuring comfort for passengers. It can operate in temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius and has advanced heating systems to keep water from freezing, along with bio-toilet tanks.
A historic moment and a dream come true! Trial run of Vande Bharat Express train from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station, Katra, to Budgam has been successfully completed. Congratulations to Indian Railways officials and the team working on the ground. pic.twitter.com/pIy2OyzKMB
— Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) January 25, 2025
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw mentioned that the Vande Bharat trains are an important part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make In India’ initiative. He also noted that several countries are interested in buying semi-high-speed Vande Bharat trains from India.
These trains are known for their improved safety features, including Kavach technology, and offer modern amenities like accessible toilets for people with disabilities and Braille signage. This trial run is a big step forward for India’s railway system and its efforts to enhance transportation across the country.
