Archive · 24 Jul 2026
Four New Trains Boost Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage
The Central Government has added four new train services, including two Vande Bharat Express trains, to make it easier for people to visit the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
These new trains connect important places like Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, and Budgam.
The Vande Bharat Express trains are faster and more comfortable, making the journey better for pilgrims.
The government hopes these new services will make it easier for more people to visit the shrine.
Four new train services, including two Vande Bharat Express trains, introduced in the Jammu Division.
New services connect Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, and Budgam.
Vande Bharat Express offers faster travel, comfortable seating, and improved onboard facilities.
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Budgam Express operational since March 12, 2026.
Amritsar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express operational since August 10, 2025.
- Who
- Central Government, Indian Railways, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Pilgrims
- What
- Introduction of four new train services, including two Vande Bharat Express trains.
- When
- New services operational from March 12, 2026, August 10, 2025, and June 7, 2025.
- Where
- Jammu Division, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Budgam, Jammu Tawi, Srinagar, Amritsar.
- Why
- To improve rail connectivity and convenience for pilgrims traveling to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
Government Perspective
Pilgrim Perspective
Purpose of New Train Services
Government Perspective
The government aims to improve rail connectivity and infrastructure in the Jammu Division.
Pilgrim Perspective
Pilgrims seek convenient and comfortable travel options to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
Benefits of Vande Bharat Express
Government Perspective
The government highlights the modern amenities and faster travel times as key benefits.
Pilgrim Perspective
Pilgrims appreciate the reduced travel time and improved onboard facilities.
- New Train Services
- Four new pairs of train services, including two Vande Bharat Express trains.
- Jammu Division
- 70th division of Indian Railways, created in January 2025.
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Budgam Express
- Operational since March 12, 2026.
- Amritsar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express
- Operational since August 10, 2025.
- Jammu Tawi–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express
- Operational since June 7, 2025.
- Current Train Services
- Jammu Tawi: 114, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra: 46, Budgam: 19.