JAMMU, August 12: The Railway Board has approved the extension of the Sabarmati-Jammu Tawi Express train service up to Katra, the base town for the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. This decision aims to enhance convenience for pilgrims and passengers traveling from western India to the pilgrimage site.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the extended train service will operate via Jammu and make a stop at Shaheed Captain Tushar Mahajan station in Udhampur before reaching its final destination at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi railway station in Katra. This route modification is expected to significantly benefit thousands of travelers from states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Punjab, who currently disembark at Jammu Tawi and then arrange separate transportation, such as buses, to reach Katra.
The extension of the Sabarmati-Jammu Tawi Express is anticipated to eliminate the need for passengers to change trains or make additional travel arrangements for the onward journey to Katra. This streamlining of the travel process is projected to reduce overall travel time and associated expenses for passengers undertaking the pilgrimage.
Northern Railway officials stated that the exact commencement date for the extended service will be announced separately once all final arrangements are in place. Passengers have been advised to stay updated by checking the official IRCTC website, the mobile application, or by inquiring at station reservation counters for the latest information regarding train timings and reservation availability.
Officials from the Jammu division of Northern Railway highlighted that this expansion of rail connectivity is poised to further bolster religious tourism to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, offering a more comfortable and integrated travel experience for devotees and other visitors.
The Chenab Times News Desk