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Will India-Pakistan War Further Delay Launch Of Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Rail Line?

Sandy Verma | May 10, 2025 11:24 AM CST

As India and Pakistan tensions escalate to the initial stages of war, a specific concern is mounting over its potential impact on the Mata Vaishno Devi Katra rail line in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly regarding its operations during the summer holiday season. With the long-awaited rail link nearing readiness, travellers are eager to know when services will commence and what security measures are in place, especially for the iconic bridge along the route.

Indian Railways Offers Reassurance

Indian Railways has sought to allay fears, stating that the Mata Vaishno Devi Katra rail line has been completed this year after 23 years of dedicated work. A key highlight of this project is the world’s highest railway arch bridge, a significant engineering achievement. A special Vande Bharat train, designed for comfort even in freezing temperatures, has already undergone successful trial runs on the route. In addition, multiple trains are being prepared for extension to accommodate increased demand.

Despite external threats, railway officials have affirmed that Indian Railways is fully equipped to maintain safe and timely operations, with swift deployment capabilities should an emergency arise.

Current Operational Status And Safety Precautions

An official from the Railway Ministry confirmed that no new decisions have been taken since the inauguration, originally planned for April 19, was postponed. As of now, there have been no fresh updates. Meanwhile, tight security measures have been implemented, especially around the Chenab-Anji bridge and other critical sections of the railway line.

Given its strategic significance, the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) was declared a national project in 2002. Spanning 272 kilometres, the USBRL connects the Kashmir Valley, from Udhampur to Baramulla, with the broader Indian Railways network. It stands as one of the most technically demanding and ambitious undertakings by Indian Railways since independence.

Preparations are actively underway to launch the first Vande Bharat service on this prestigious route.

What Is The Situation In Jammu?

Earlier on Friday, the Border Security Force said it had killed seven terrorists who were trying to infiltrate from across the India-Pakistan International Border in Jammu, and also destroyed a Rangers post.

The incident took place in the Samba sector on the intervening night of May 8-9 after a “big group” of terrorists was detected by the surveillance grid.

This infiltration bid was supported by fire from Pakistan Rangers post Dhandhar, a BSF spokesperson said.

On Thursday night, India neutralised Pakistan military’s attempt to hit military stations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur and some other locations with missiles and drones.