In a major boost to rail connectivity in Jammu & Kashmir, the Northern Railway has announced the extension of Train No. 26401/26402 SVDK–SINA Vande Bharat Express up to Jammu Tawi (JAT) effective March 1, 2026. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that, according to the official notification issued by the Railway Headquarters, the prestigious Vande Bharat Express, which was previously operating between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar (SINA), will now originate from and terminate at Jammu Tawi, thereby enhancing passenger convenience and regional accessibility. Train No. 26401 (JAT-SINA) will depart from Jammu Tawi Railway Station at 0615 hours and arrive at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 0808 hours, Reasi station at 0830 hours, and Banihal station at 0958 hours. The train will stop at every station for 2 minutes and finally arrive at Srinagar station at 1110 hours. Train No. 26402 (SINA-JAT) will depart from Srinagar station at 1400 hours and arrive at Banihal station at 1458 hours, Reasi station at 1634 hours, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 1700 hours, and finally at Jammu Railway Station at 1850 hours. The total journey time will be approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes in the up direction and 4 hours and 50 minutes in the down direction. In a significant operational enhancement, the existing 8-car Vande Bharat rake will be replaced with a 20-car Vande Bharat rake, substantially increasing seating capacity and accommodating growing passenger demand on this vital route. Railway authorities have directed all concerned divisions to ensure wide publicity through station notice boards, public address systems, and electronic and print media, so that passengers are adequately informed about the changes. The extension of the Vande Bharat Express up to Jammu Tawi is expected to significantly benefit commuters, tourists, and pilgrims traveling to the Kashmir Valley, while further strengthening rail connectivity in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.