Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is set to inaugurate the first direct Vande Bharat Express between Jammu and Srinagar on April 30, with regular services commencing on May 2. The train will operate two pairs of services: train numbers 26401/26402 will run six days a week except Tuesdays, while 26403/26404 will operate six days a week except Wednesdays. The inaugural train departs Jammu at 10 am, covering 267 km through the scenic Himalayan terrain to Srinagar. From May 2, train 26401 will leave Jammu at 6:20 am, arriving in Srinagar at 11:10 am, and train 26402 will return from Srinagar at 2 pm, reaching Jammu at 6:50 pm. The upgraded 20-coach train is equipped with the Kavach safety system, GPS-based information, and rotating seats, enhancing safety and comfort. This new service is expected to cut travel time, boost tourism, and facilitate easier travel for students, government staff, and traders by providing direct connectivity without the need to change trains at Katra. Northern Railway has ensured operational safety by inspecting key infrastructure along the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, including the Chenab Bridge and the Anji Khad Bridge.