After a long wait, the Kashmir Valley is set to receive its first train service. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to flag off the first train from Katra to Srinagar on April 19. The inaugural train will be a special Vande Bharat train, reveal sources.

In addition to flagging off the inaugural train, sources suggest that PM Modi will also visit the world’s highest Chenab rail bridge and address a public rally in Katra on the same day.

Along with PM Modi, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, along with other top political figures and officials will also be present at the event.

Initially, the train is likely to operate between Katra and Srinagar/Baramulla. Sources indicate that from August, once the expansion work at Jammu Railway Station is completed, the train is expected to run from Jammu to Srinagar/Baramulla. However, there will be no direct train service from Delhi to Srinagar as of now.

Source: India Today