The Amritsar–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway line is a broad-gauge railway line connecting Amritsar in Punjab to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station in Jammu and Kashmir. The line is operational and serves as a vital corridor for both passenger and freight trains in northern India. The route also serves pilgrims traveling to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra.
History The line was constructed in the year 1975 to enhance connectivity between Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. Over the years, it has undergone upgrades, including track doubling and partial electrification to improve speed and efficiency.
Route and major stations The line covers a distance of approximately 207 km, with the following major stations: (ASR) (VKA) (BAT) Dina Nagar (DNN) Dhariwal (DHW) (GSP) (PTK) (HRNR) (JAT)
Electrification The line has been partially electrified with 25 kV 50 Hz AC overhead traction. Full electrification is planned to further improve operational efficiency.
Services Several trains operate on this route, including: Bathinda–Jammu Tawi Express (19225) SMVD Katra–Amritsar Vande Bharat Express (26405) Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Express (SBIB SVDK Express, 19415) Muri Express (18101) Sambalpur–Jammu Tawi Express (18309)
Future developments There are proposals for high-speed rail corridors on this route, which aim to reduce travel time and increase capacity. Other modernization projects include further electrification and track doubling.
See also Indian Railways Northern Railway zone Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station
References
External links Official Indian Railways Website Indian Railways Train Website