Historic Whistle Blows: PM Modi Flags Off Vande Bharat to Kashmir, Connects with Tomorrow's Leaders

Prime Minister Modi flags off the first Vande Bharat Express trains connecting Katra and Srinagar, revolutionizing connectivity in J&K.

KATRA/SRINAGAR, J&K – A new chapter in connectivity and national integration dawned upon Jammu and Kashmir yesterday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, amidst palpable excitement, flagged off the inaugural Vande Bharat Express trains connecting the revered pilgrimage town of Katra with the picturesque capital city of Srinagar. The monumental launch, a testament to engineering prowess and a symbol of unwavering commitment to regional development, was further sweetened by the Prime Minister's spontaneous and inspiring interaction with bright-eyed youngsters onboard, offering a glimpse into the future these trains are designed to build.

The sleek, indigenously built Vande Bharat trains, specially tailored for the challenging Himalayan terrain and extreme weather conditions, promise to slash travel time between Katra and Srinagar to a mere three hours – a significant reduction from the arduous six to seven hours by road. This all-weather rail link, a key component of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, traverses 36 tunnels and 943 bridges, including the iconic Chenab Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, and the nation's first cable-stayed rail bridge over the Anji Khad.

"Today is a special day for my sisters and brothers of Jammu and Kashmir," Prime Minister Modi affirmed, speaking at the flagging-off ceremony in Katra. He highlighted how the completion of the USBRL project transforms the long-cherished vision of connecting "Kashmir to Kanyakumari" into a railway reality, promising to revolutionize tourism, boost trade, and ease the lives of residents and pilgrims alike.

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A Glimpse of the Future: Interaction with Young Minds

Beyond the grand inauguration, a truly heartwarming moment unfolded as Prime Minister Modi stepped onto the newly launched Vande Bharat. Instead of a formal inspection, he sought out the future of the nation – the bright and energetic school children who were among the first passengers.

Flagged off Vande Bharat trains that connect Katra and Srinagar. Also had the opportunity to interact with these bright and energetic youngsters. Here are highlights from our interaction... pic.twitter.com/k0UY7ilI9Z

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 6, 2025

The Prime Minister engaged in a candid and encouraging interaction with the youngsters, his questions ranging from their aspirations to their daily routines. "What are your dreams for Jammu and Kashmir?" he reportedly asked a group of enthusiastic students, their faces glowing with excitement at the unexpected encounter. One young girl, no older than twelve, shared her dream of becoming an engineer to contribute to even grander infrastructure projects for the region, drawing a warm smile from the Prime Minister.

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He emphasized the importance of hard work and focus, reportedly advising the students on the significance of adequate sleep and unwavering concentration on their goals. "Concentrate on your chosen path without getting distracted," he counselled, a message that resonated deeply with the impressionable minds. Another highlight was his keen interest in their perspectives on the Vande Bharat itself, with children eagerly sharing their excitement about the speed and comfort of the journey.

This impromptu interaction underscored the human element of this massive infrastructure project, transforming it from mere steel and concrete into a catalyst for dreams and opportunities. The Prime Minister's engagement with the youth served as a powerful symbol that these trains are not just about connecting places, but also about connecting aspirations and empowering the next generation of Jammu and Kashmir.

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With commercial operations set to begin from Saturday, the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is poised to redefine travel in the region, bringing with it not only convenience but also a renewed sense of hope and integration for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.