Reasi, 25 Oct — Northern Railway has announced a two‑minute stop for the Katra‑Srinagar Vande Bharat Express at Reasi station, starting 29 October. The change is a five‑month trial aimed at boosting local travel and tourism.
The new halt will help locals and pilgrims reach the holy city of Katra and the desert capital of Srinagar faster. Train numbers 26401 and 26402 will now stop in Reasi, then leave Katra at 08:10 AM and arrive in Srinagar at 11:08 AM. The stop cuts travel time and gives the region better access to this semi‑high‑speed line that first ran in June, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the service.
“Reasi has long asked for a Vande Bharat stop,” said Uchit Singhal, the divisional commercial manager for Jammu. “The train now meets the town’s rising passenger traffic and supports tourism near the Vaishno Devi shrine and the world‑famous Chenab Bridge.” Residents welcomed the decision, thanking Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for listening to their pleas.
A local, speaking anonymously, said: “Under PM Modi’s leadership, we saw bridges built, and now the train will stop here. That will bring tourists, cut unemployment, and give our youth new opportunities.” Another resident, Pankaj Malhotra, added: “Reasi’s demand for a bridge came true. The Vande Bharat halt will bring outsiders, boost local businesses, and create jobs.”
Business groups praised the move as a milestone that will raise pilgrim traffic to nearby sites, including the world’s highest railway arch. The Udhampur‑Srinagar‑Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), with its iconic Chenab Bridge, has already reshaped transportation in Jammu and Kashmir.
Officials will track ticket sales closely and review the stopping pattern after five months to decide whether it becomes permanent. As Singhal noted, “The Vande Bharat has redefined speed and comfort for travelers in Jammu and Kashmir.”
Source: ianslive
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