Northern Railways Runs Special Trains to Rescue Stranded Travelers in Kashmir
Special trains run to help passengers stranded by Jammu-Srinagar highway closure.
Northern Railways has rolled out two special train services on the Katra-Budgam and Katra-Banihal sections of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) to provide a vital alternative for passengers stranded due to the ongoing closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44). The fortnight-long services, which began on Friday, address the urgent need for safe and efficient travel amid severe road disruptions caused by heavy rainfall and waterlogging in Jammu and Kashmir.
The initiative includes a Vande Bharat (Vastodom) train operating daily between Budgam and Katra, and another special train connecting Katra to Banihal, both running bi-directionally for the next 15 days. These trains join an existing Katra-Sangaldan service launched on September 8, bringing the total to three flood-relief trains on the USBRL route. The Banihal-Katra train departs Banihal at 11:00 AM, arriving in Katra by 1:30 PM, with stops at Reasi, Bakkal, Dugga, Sawalkot, Sangaldan, Sumber, and Khari, before returning at 4:10 PM.
The decision, driven by Divisional Railway Manager Vivek Kumar, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal, and Senior Divisional Operations Manager Arish Bansal, responds to public demand and state administration appeals following the highway’s closure in Udhampur district. “The safety and convenience of passengers is our top priority. With road services suspended in the Banihal and Katra areas, these special trains will ensure safe and efficient travel,” Bansal stated.
Also Read: Kashmir Braces for Floods as Torrential Rains Hit Valley
The Jammu-Srinagar highway, a critical artery, has been blocked due to heavy rains triggering landslides and waterlogging, severely impacting travel and goods transport. The enthusiastic response from passengers highlights the trains’ role as a lifeline. Northern Railways advises travelers to carry valid photo IDs and check schedules via official channels as efforts to restore the highway continue amidst challenging weather conditions.
Also Read: Bandipora-Gurez Road Reopened After Landslides Cleared
