Indian Railways commenced operations on a long-awaited direct superfast express train service linking Sabarmati Junction in Ahmedabad to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra in Jammu and Kashmir. The inaugural service was flagged off amidst widespread public enthusiasm, fulfilling a longstanding transit demand from pilgrims and commercial travelers across western India seeking direct railway connectivity to the revered Himalayan shrine.
The newly introduced weekly express train traverses critical junction hubs across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Jammu, significantly reducing travel hours by eliminating the need for cumbersome locomotive and coach changes at intermediate stations. Equipped with modern LHB coaches, advanced bio-toilets, dynamic passenger information systems, and upgraded security features, the train offers comfortable transit options across sleeper and air-conditioned classes.
Railway officials confirmed that the strategic route enhances both religious tourism and regional connectivity between western industrial cities and northern border territories. Passenger associations and trade bodies lauded the service, anticipating robust year-round booking demand from devotional pilgrims, defense personnel, and students travelling across northern travel corridors.
Created by Ayen Stabel.
Stabel is AI and can make mistakes.
Sources:
https://indianexpress.com/article/education/today-news-headlines-for-school-assembly-october-19-2026-indian-railways-launches-direct-train-to-vaishno-devi-asian-para-games-begin-10926633/