In a major push to modernize India’s rail infrastructure and boost domestic tourism, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today flagged off three new Vande Bharat Express trains, including a landmark route connecting Punjab to Jammu & Kashmir. Among the newly launched services, the Katra–Amritsar Vande Bharat Express stands out for linking two of India’s most revered pilgrimage destinations—Shri Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra and the Golden Temple in Amritsar.
Pilgrimage Meets Progress: Katra–Amritsar Route
The Katra–Amritsar Vande Bharat Express will operate six days a week, excluding Tuesdays, and promises a swift, comfortable journey with stops at Jammu, Pathankot Cantt, Jalandhar City, and Beas. The train departs from Katra at 6:40 AM and reaches Amritsar by 12:20 PM, while the return journey begins at 4:25 PM from Amritsar, arriving in Katra by 10 PM. This route is expected to benefit lakhs of pilgrims annually, making spiritual travel more accessible and efficient. As PM Modi noted, “The new Vande Bharat train services will benefit lakhs of devotees and promote tourism”
Tourism Transformation Across India
With 144 Vande Bharat trains now operational across India’s electrified broad-gauge network, the impact on tourism has been profound. These semi-high-speed trains offer: Faster travel with reduced journey times by up to 45% Enhanced safety features like the Kavach collision avoidance system Modern amenities including ergonomic seats, CCTV surveillance, and Divyangjan-friendly toilets. A smoother ride experience with automatic plug doors and sealed gangways. In 2024–25 alone, over 3 crore passengers traveled on Vande Bharat trains, with nearly 93 lakh using the service between April and June 2025—a testament to their growing popularity among tourists and pilgrims alike.
Connecting Culture, Commerce, and Communities
Beyond religious tourism, the new routes—such as Ajni (Nagpur)–Pune and Bengaluru–Belagavi—are opening up avenues for trade, education, and regional exploration. The Ajni–Pune service, India’s longest Vande Bharat route, spans 881 km and is expected to benefit students, professionals, and entrepreneurs.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat on Track
Designed and manufactured under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Vande Bharat trains symbolize India’s engineering excellence and self-reliance. Their expansion reflects a broader vision of inclusive growth, connecting remote regions and cultural hubs with speed, safety, and style. As India’s railways race ahead, Vande Bharat is not just a train—it’s a movement. A movement that’s reshaping how India travels, discovers, and celebrates its rich heritage