Srinagar, Jan 25: In view of the heavy rush of passengers following prolonged road closures and flight cancellations due to inclement weather, the Railways has decided to operate a **reserved special train between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar (SINA)** on **January 27 and 28**, officials said.
The special train will run on the route of the non-operational **Vande Bharat service** to ensure the availability of at least **two train services** between Katra and Srinagar during the two days. The train will operate in **both directions—SVDK–SINA–SVDK**, with a scheduled halt at **Banihal (BAHL)**.
According to officials, on **January 27**, the train will depart from **SVDK around 8.10 am** and reach Srinagar in the afternoon, while the return service from Srinagar to Katra will operate in the evening. Similar services with adjusted timings are planned for **January 28** to facilitate smooth passenger movement.
The proposed rake composition will include a **power car, luggage and brake van, multiple AC-3 tier coaches, AC-3 tier economy coaches**, and a power car at the other end. Officials said **security clearance has been sought from the Railway Protection Force (RPF)** for the smooth operation of the special train.
The move aims to provide relief to stranded passengers and ease travel between Jammu and Kashmir amid continued disruption of **road and air connectivity**. (KNC)
