The first direct Vande Bharat Express service between Jammu and Srinagar began commercial operations on Friday, marking a significant advancement in rail connectivity for Jammu and Kashmir. This semi-high-speed train, inaugurated by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, is designed to cut travel time to approximately five hours, a substantial reduction from the 7-10 hours typically required by road, which is often hindered by landslides and closures. The train operates through the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), a major project undertaken by Indian Railways. Two pairs of trains will run six days a week, with one service departing Jammu Tawi at 6:20 am and arriving in Srinagar by 11:10 am. Ticket prices for the Chair Car class start at around ₹665-715 (approximately $8-9 USD), with bookings available through the IRCTC website, app, and other authorized platforms. This new service is expected to bolster tourism and trade in the region, providing a reliable alternative to the frequently disrupted highway.