Budgam: Railway authorities on Friday launched the first special train from Budgam to Katra to assist passengers affected by the closure of the Jammu–Srinagar highway. The service will run daily for 15 days, from September 19 to October 3, 2025.
Officials said arrangements have been made to ensure smooth operations and accommodate the increased travel demand during the highway shutdown.
Northern Railway authorities in Jammu noted that heavy rains and waterlogging have severely impacted road traffic in the division. Earlier, a special service operated between Katra and Sangaldan, but rain-induced road damage disrupted connectivity. In response to requests from residents and local administration, the railway has now introduced a special train between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Banihal for 15 days under the supervision of Divisional Railway Manager Vivek Kumar, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal, and Senior Divisional Operations Manager Arish Bansal.
“Train No. 04688 will depart Banihal at 11:00 am and reach Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 1:30 pm, stopping at Reasi, Bakkal, Dugga, Sawalkot, Sangaldan, Sumber, and Khari,” an official said. The return service, Train No. 04687, will leave Katra at 1:45 pm and arrive at Banihal at 4:10 pm, halting at the same stations.
Senior railway officials emphasized, “Passenger safety and convenience remain our top priority. With road services suspended in the Banihal and Katra regions, this special train offers a vital alternative to ensure uninterrupted travel for the public.”
