Srinagar/Banihal, 4 January 2025: The first trial run of a train on the Katra-Banihal section was conducted today, marking a step towards the launch of rail services connecting India with Kashmir.
Sandeep Gupta, Chief Administrative Officer of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL), who was aboard the train, confirmed the successful trial. "Under the safety trials, we conducted today’s run. We were part of this successful run," Gupta stated to reporters.
The trial, running through the snow-capped mountains, forms part of the broader safety and infrastructure assessments for the railway project.
Gupta also shared that the Commissioner of Railway Safety would carry out statutory inspections on January 7 and 8. “After these inspections, the Commissioner’s report will guide the next steps towards initiating train services to Kashmir,” he added.
The train reached Banihal around 1:30 PM, passing notable structures such as the Anji Khad Bridge and the Chenab’s arch bridge at Kauri. “The infrastructure continues to progress as part of the USBRL project’s broader goal of improving connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of India.”
With nearly 255 kilometers of the total 272-kilometer stretch completed, the Railway Ministry aims to finalize the remaining section between Katra and Reasi by December. The inauguration of the Vande Bharat train, which will connect Kashmir to New Delhi, is also anticipated in January.