Indian Railways is set to expand connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir with a third Vande Bharat Express operating via Udhampur. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed the approval for the new service.

  • A third Vande Bharat Express is planned between Jammu and Srinagar.
  • The new route will include a significant stop at Udhampur (Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan).
  • The service will operate under train numbers 26407/26408.
  • The expansion aims to meet the high demand and increase rail capacity in the region.

Connectivity between the twin hubs of Jammu and Srinagar is set for a massive upgrade. Indian Railways has announced plans to introduce a third Vande Bharat Express, which will specifically serve the route via Udhampur. This expansion is designed to cater to the surging passenger numbers and provide more travel flexibility in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Currently, two Vande Bharat services are operational, providing four daily trips between Jammu and Srinagar. These services, which initially connected Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar in June 2025, were extended to Jammu Tawi in April 2026. Due to consistent full occupancy, the Railways has already increased the coach capacity from 16 to 20 per train.

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Strategic Boost for Udhampur

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh shared the significant update via X, citing a formal letter from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The letter confirms that approval has been granted for the third Vande Bharat Express to run between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar via Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur. The new service will be designated as train numbers 26407/26408.

The decision comes as a response to persistent public demand and formal requests from the local population in Udhampur. By including Udhampur as a major stopover, the Railways is ensuring that this vital administrative and military hub is better integrated into the high-speed rail network.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the expansion of premium rail services in J&K is a cornerstone of the region's developmental roadmap. The addition of a third service via Udhampur not only eases the pressure on existing trains but also acts as a catalyst for tourism and local commerce by significantly reducing travel time across the mountainous terrain.

The introduction of a third Vande Bharat service marks a transformative era in the high-speed connectivity of the Kashmir Valley.

The existing services cover a distance of 269 km in approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, stopping at key locations such as Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi, and Banihal. The new service is expected to maintain this high standard of efficiency while adding much-needed capacity.

Historical Background

The evolution of rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir has been nothing short of miraculous. From the completion of the engineering marvel, the Chenab Bridge—the world's highest rail arch bridge—to the introduction of indigenous semi-high-speed trains like Vande Bharat, the region is witnessing a technological revolution that is bridging geographical gaps.

Did You Know?: The Vande Bharat Express is India's first indigenous semi-high-speed train, symbolizing the 'Make in India' initiative.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which route will the new Vande Bharat Express follow?
The third Vande Bharat Express will run from Jammu Tawi to Srinagar via Udhampur.

2. How many coaches does the Vande Bharat train currently have?
To meet high demand, the number of coaches has been increased from 16 to 20.