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Enhanced Regional Connectivity for Pilgrims and Commuters
Northern Railway is set to operationalize the Badgam Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Badgam Special Express, establishing a consistent rail link between the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu region. This strategic addition to the network provides a scheduled, reliable alternative to road travel, specifically targeting the high volume of pilgrims visiting the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.
The service is designed as a daily round-trip (excluding Sundays), utilizing AC Chair Cars to ensure passenger comfort across the challenging terrain. Beyond religious tourism, the line serves as a vital artery for business, education, and administrative travel between the two regions.
Detailed Transit Schedule and Route
The service operates on a fixed morning-departure and afternoon-return cycle, allowing passengers to complete their journey within a single day.
Badgam to Katra (Train No. 04688): The journey begins at Badgam at 7:20 AM, arriving at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 1:00 PM.
Katra to Badgam (Train No. 04687): The return leg departs Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 1:45 PM, reaching Badgam by 8:00 PM.
Strategic Network Stops
To maximize regional utility, the train includes a comprehensive list of halts, ensuring that smaller communities and major towns have direct access to the Katra hub.
- Kashmir Valley Sector: Srinagar, Awantipora, Anantnag, and Qazigund.
- Intermediate & Jammu Sector: Banihal, Khari, Sumber, Sangaldan, Sawalkote, Dugga, Bakkal, and Reasi.
Operational Summary
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Service Name | Badgam Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Badgam Special Express |
| Start Date | October 19, 2026 |
| Frequency | 6 Days a Week (No service on Sundays) |
| Coach Class | AC Chair Car |
| Train No. (Badgam $\rightarrow$ Katra) | 04688 |
| Train No. (Katra $\rightarrow$ Badgam) | 04687 |
| Badgam Departure | 7:20 AM |
| Katra Arrival | 1:00 PM |
| Katra Departure | 1:45 PM |
| Badgam Arrival | 8:00 PM |
Key Takeaways
- New Timeline: Regular operations begin October 19, 2026.
- Frequency: The train runs Monday through Saturday; Sundays are excluded.
- Accessibility: 13+ stops across the route provide deep connectivity for the Kashmir Valley and Jammu regions.
- Efficiency: The round-trip schedule allows for same-day travel between Badgam and Katra.
- Support: Passengers can access official updates and assistance via the RailMadad helpline at 139.
FAQ
When does the Badgam to Katra train service start? The regular service commences on October 19, 2026.
Does the train run every day of the week? No, the service operates six days a week and does not run on Sundays.
What are the primary stops on the route? Major stops include Srinagar, Anantnag, Banihal, and Reasi, among others.
What class of travel is available on this route? The service is operated as an AC Chair Car.
