Prime Minister Narendra Modi, virtually from Bengaluru, flagged off the Amritsar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Vande Bharat Express, a day after the first freight train from Punjab arrived in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The new high-speed passenger service is expected to enhance regional connectivity, promote tourism, and provide a world-class travel experience.Boost to Tourism & TradeHighlighting the significance of the launch, the Prime Minister said, “The trains will boost tourism, commerce and connectivity.” The Vande Bharat Express aims to cut travel time, improve passenger comfort, and strengthen economic links between Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir.Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu noted that the service will facilitate spiritual travel for devotees visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and also stimulate tourism and trade. Passengers boarding from Pathankot, Jalandhar, and Beas will also benefit from the improved connectivity. The train will operate six days a week, excluding Tuesdays.Schedule & FeaturesThe train departs Katra at 6:40 am and reaches Amritsar by 12:20 pm, with stops at Jammu Tawi, Pathankot Cantt, Jalandhar City, and Beas. The return service leaves Amritsar at 4:25 pm and reaches Katra at 10:00 pm, enabling same-day round trips.Equipped with modern amenities such as automatic doors, onboard Wi-Fi, infotainment screens, reclining seats, bio-vacuum toilets, GPS tracking, and the Kavach safety system, the Vande Bharat offers both comfort and safety. With this launch, Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir now each have five Vande Bharat trains, totalling 10 services.Local ImpactLieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, stating that the train will ease travel for pilgrims and contribute to the region’s economic growth.On the freight front, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Javed Ahmed Tenga said the timely arrival of the first freight train in Anantnag will support the swift delivery of horticulture produce from Kashmir.News source: The New Indian Express