In a landmark achievement, the Vande Bharat Express, specifically designed to perform effortlessly in Jammu and Kashmir's harsh winter conditions, successfully completed its trial run on Saturday.
During its maiden trial, the train reached Srinagar station from Katra in Jammu at 11:30 am.
It later proceeded to Budgam station to conclude the trial run.
"The first trial run of the Vande Bharat between Katra and Kashmir was completed successfully," an official said.
"This is a historic step. It reflects the vision of our prime minister to connect Kashmir with the rest of the country," according to PTI, Northern Railway's Chief Area Manager (Srinagar), Saqib Yousuf, was quoted.
He mentioned that the trial was also conducted to determine the time the train would take on different sections.
Flag-off ceremony
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to inaugurate the train service from Katra following approval from the commissioner of railway safety to operate on the Katra-Baramulla section.
Last month, the Railways successfully completed 272 kilometers of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
Key features
In June 2024, the Vande Bharat Express was specifically designed to withstand Jammu and Kashmir's harsh winters. It features advanced heating systems to prevent water and bio-toilet tanks from freezing, along with warm air circulation to support the vacuum system and ensure optimal air-brake performance in sub-zero temperatures.
The train is also equipped with embedded heating elements in the windshield, which automatically defrost the driver's lookout glass, guaranteeing clear visibility during extreme winter conditions.
Additionally, the Vande Bharat Express includes all the amenities available in other Vande Bharat trains, such as fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic plug doors, mobile charging sockets, and more.
"It has heating units to withstand sub-zero temperatures, heating pads to avoid the freezing of water in pipes and tanks, and an ambient temperature control system in the driver's cab. All these facilities have been designed to deal with the snowy and cold conditions," added Saqib Yousuf.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha called it a landmark moment and the realization of a long-cherished dream.
"A historic moment and a dream come true! Trial run of Vande Bharat Express train from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station, Katra, to Budgam has been successfully completed. Congratulations to Indian Railways officials and the team working on the ground," he said in a post on X.
USBRL project
The Indian Railways have completed 272 kilometers of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project and successfully conducted six trial runs across different sections of the track.
The Anji Khad bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, is a part of the USBRL project. It ranks among the two highest railway bridges in the world, alongside the Chenab bridge.
The bridge features a single pylon that stands 331 meters above the riverbed, with the pylon itself rising 191 meters from its foundation. The total length of the bridge is 473.25 meters.
Source: Mint and Hindustan Time
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