New Delhi/Katra, August 10: ANB: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday flagged off the Amritsar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express, marking another milestone in Jammu and Kashmir’s expanding railway network.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha thanked the Prime Minister for dedicating the high-speed train to the people, describing it as a major step towards enhancing connectivity for pilgrims and strengthening the region’s economic prospects.
“The new Vande Bharat Train will ensure ease of travel for devotees of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and spur the growth momentum of the local economy,” Sinha said.
The LG noted that Jammu and Kashmir’s transport infrastructure—particularly the railway sector—has undergone “unprecedented growth” under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. He also linked the development to Friday’s landmark event, when the first-ever freight train reached Anantnag from Punjab, calling it “a significant milestone in the Valley’s transport and trade.”
*Posting on X, Sinha wrote*
“Grateful to Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji for flagging off Vande Bharat Train between Amritsar to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Station. J&K’s transport infrastructure, particularly in railways, has witnessed unprecedented growth under the leadership of Hon’ble PM. New Vande Bharat Train will ensure ease of travel for devotees of Mata Vaishno Devi and spur the growth momentum of the local economy. Yesterday, first freight train had reached Anantnag from Punjab, marking a significant milestone in Kashmir Valley’s transport infra and trade.”
The 26406 Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Amritsar Vande Bharat Express will depart Katra at 6:40 a.m. and arrive in Amritsar at 12:20 p.m. The return service, Train No. 26405, will leave Amritsar at 4:25 p.m. and reach Katra at 10:00 p.m. The train will operate six days a week, excluding Tuesdays. ANB
