Railway Ministry Raises Katra-Banihal Train Speeds to 100 kmph

The Ministry of Railways approved an increase in the maximum permissible train speed to 100 kmph on the 111-kilometre broad gauge rail section between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Banihal. This update replaces previous limits of 85 kmph on the Katra-Sangaldan stretch and 75 kmph on the Sangaldan-Banihal stretch.

Following the approval, a Vande Bharat train operated at 100 kmph for the first time on the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world's highest railway bridge, which stands 359 meters above the river bed. Northern Railway confirmed the speed enhancement was implemented after the completion of all prescribed safety requirements and strict compliance checks.

The bridge is a key component of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link project. Officials stated that the increased speed will reduce journey times and strengthen connectivity within Jammu and Kashmir. Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Jammu, noted that the move would provide passengers with faster, safer and more comfortable travel while also boosting tourism, trade and economic activities in the region.