Vande Bharat Express unveiled for J&K with sub-zero temperature features | Check details

The Railway Board has unveiled a newly designed Vande Bharat Express for the upcoming Katra-Srinagar rail route, specifically developed to address the region’s challenging winter conditions. Currently stationed at the Shakurbasti coaching depot in New Delhi, the train is undergoing final preparations before the route is inspected by the Commissioner of Railway Safety. The train is set to operate on the Katra-Srinagar corridor, enhancing connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the national railway network.

This Vande Bharat Express features several specialized climate adaptations to ensure its efficient operation in sub-zero temperatures and mountainous terrain. One of the key innovations is an advanced heating system designed to prevent freezing of critical components such as the water tank, bio-toilet systems, and vacuum systems. The system provides warm air to keep these essential features operational even in extreme cold conditions, ensuring smooth functioning throughout the journey.

Additionally, the train’s air-brake system is optimized for operation in sub-zero temperatures, which is crucial for maintaining safety and performance on steep and rugged terrain. Embedded heating elements in the train’s windshield automatically defrost the driver’s front lookout glass, improving visibility in heavy snowfall and harsh winter conditions, which can obstruct clear sightlines during travel in the region’s mountainous areas.

In terms of passenger amenities, the Vande Bharat Express for Katra-Srinagar includes fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic plug doors, and mobile charging sockets. These features are designed to ensure a high level of comfort and convenience, maintaining the standards set by other Vande Bharat Express trains operating across India. The coaches are equipped with advanced HVAC systems that maintain consistent temperatures, providing passengers with a comfortable travel experience despite the external weather conditions.

The introduction of this Vande Bharat Express is a critical step toward improving regional connectivity, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir, where challenging geographical and weather conditions have traditionally posed significant hurdles to infrastructure development. The train’s operation will also contribute to boosting tourism and economic activities by providing a faster and more reliable mode of transport between Katra and Srinagar, connecting key destinations in the region with the national railway network.

The Vande Bharat Express on the Katra-Srinagar route is part of the Indian government's broader initiative to upgrade railway services in remote and high-altitude areas. This initiative aligns with efforts to modernize transportation infrastructure across the country, ensuring that remote regions are better integrated with the rest of the national network.