Srinagar, September 8, 2025 — In a timely and much-needed response to the disruption caused by the Jammu–Srinagar highway closure, railway authorities have stepped in with a lifeline for stranded travelers. A special train service has officially commenced between Budgam and Katra, aiming to ease the inconvenience faced by thousands due to heavy rains and waterlogging that rendered parts of the national highway unusable.
Beginning September 19 and running daily until October 3, this 15-day special rail service will provide critical relief to residents, pilgrims, and tourists who have found themselves cut off by the battered roadways.
According to Northern Railway officials in Jammu, the region’s connectivity has been severely hampered. Previously, an emergency service operated between Katra and Sangaldan, but extreme weather conditions and road damage disrupted that effort. In response to repeated appeals from local communities and the administration, the railway network quickly mobilized to extend operations to the Banihal–Katra corridor, with new stops en route.
Under the leadership of Divisional Railway Manager Vivek Kumar, and supported by Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal and Senior Divisional Operations Manager Arish Bansal, this service was made possible within a tight time frame—highlighting the commitment and coordination of the railway department.
Here are the details of the train schedule:
- Train No. 04688 will depart from Banihal at 11:00 AM and reach Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 1:30 PM, with halts at Reasi, Bakkal, Dugga, Sawalkot, Sangaldan, Sumber, and Khari.
- Train No. 04687 will make the return journey, leaving Katra at 1:45 PM and reaching Banihal by 4:10 PM, stopping at the same stations.
A senior railway spokesperson remarked, “The safety and convenience of passengers is our top priority. With road transport options blocked in several parts of Banihal and Katra, this special train is a reliable alternative to keep the region moving.”
