Train of Triumph: Vande Bharat’s Kashmir Run Unleashes Commandos and Confidence

Image Source: Hindustan Times

Train of Triumph: Vande Bharat’s Kashmir Run Unleashes Commandos and Confidence

In a historic move to connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the inaugural run of the first-ever Vande Bharat Express trains between Katra and Srinagar on June 6, 2025. Following heightened security concerns in the aftermath of recent terror strikes, the government has thrown an unprecedented security blanket around travellers on this strategic route.

Key Highlights

Elite RPF Commandos Aboard: Special Railway Protection Force (RPF) commandos, specially trained and named as CORAS, have been deployed on all Vande Bharat trains running between Srinagar and Katra. There are 15 commandos and a supervisor on every train, two commandos in every coach, who are outfitted with the best weapons, bulletproof jackets, helmets, and high-tech gadgets.

Multi-Layered Security System: The security cordon consists of the RPF, GRP, CRPF, Indian Army, and J&K Police Special Operations Group sharpshooters. High-resolution camera drones are used for 24/7 aerial monitoring of the route, particularly over the historic Chenab and Anji bridges.

Real-Time Monitoring:
High-technology cameras have been installed in tunnels and over bridges to keep track of a round-the-clock vigil. Security screening and frisking drives have been stepped up at stations like Katra and Udhampur, and police checks are conducted on all surrounding corridors.

NSG-Led Security Drills: The National Security Guard (NSG), J&K Police, and RPF recently conducted high-intensity train intervention exercises at Katra station to enhance readiness against potential terrorist attacks.

Modified Trains for Harsh Winters: The Vande Bharat trains running on this section have been specially designed for harsh climate, with heating, anti-spall coating, and automatic doors, ensuring safety and comfort in temperatures of below zero degrees.

Operational Facts: Two Vande Bharat trains will run six days a week (Tuesday and Wednesday off) and will cover the 190-km distance between Katra and Srinagar in three hours, covering an intermediate halt in between at Banihal. The fares are ₹715 in Chair Car and ₹1,320 in Executive Class.

Symbolic Defiance: The robust security deployment and seamless operation of the train service are being seen as a strong message of resistance and defiance in the face of terrorism, with the objective of encouraging tourism, religious pilgrimages, and regional integration.

Source: Times of India, Hindustan Times, ABP Live, Aaj Tak, Daily Excelsior, The News Now, The Pioneer, Economic Times.