JAMMU, Aug 20: Indian Railways is set to introduce a third Vande Bharat Express between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar via Udhampur, providing an additional high-speed rail option for passengers travelling between the two cities.
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Thursday shared a letter from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirming that approval has been granted for the new service, which will operate as Train Nos. 26407/26408 Jammu Tawi-Srinagar-Jammu Tawi Vande Bharat Express.
The new train will run via Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur, further strengthening rail connectivity between the Jammu region and the Kashmir Valley.
At present, two Vande Bharat trains operate between Jammu and Srinagar, providing four services. The services were initially introduced on June 6, 2025, between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar.
From April 30, 2026, the services were extended to Jammu Tawi railway station, providing direct Vande Bharat connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. The existing services operate as Train Nos. 26401/26402 and 26404/26403.
Both trains have reportedly been operating with full occupancy since their launch, reflecting strong passenger demand. In view of the increasing demand, the Railways had also increased the number of coaches in each Vande Bharat train from 16 to 20.
The existing Jammu Tawi-Srinagar Vande Bharat service has four intermediate stoppages at Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Udhampur, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi and Banihal.
The train covers the 269-km distance between Jammu Tawi and Srinagar in around 4 hours and 45 minutes, offering faster and more convenient connectivity between the two regions.
The introduction of the third Vande Bharat service is expected to further enhance passenger capacity and facilitate smoother travel between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley, particularly amid growing demand for rail connectivity.
