A significant and historic transformation is set to occur in India's railway history. On June 1st, 2025, a new railway division will commence operations in Jammu, marking the beginning of a new era for Jammu and Kashmir. The Ministry of Railways officially announced this new arrangement on May 29th.
Kashmir Vande Bharat Express: June 1st is poised to be a momentous day for Jammu, as it will witness the establishment of the Jammu New Railway Division. This crucial announcement was made by the Ministry of Railways on May 29th via a gazette notification. Currently under the Firozpur division, Jammu will operate as an independent railway division from June 1st, headquartered at Jammu Tawi railway station.
This move is considered a major improvement towards better management and development of the Jammu region's railway network. The establishment of this new division will not only enhance services for regional passengers but also streamline railway administrative functions.
Jammu Railway Division: An Introduction
This new railway division will span approximately 742 kilometers, encompassing the main Pathankot-Jammu-Srinagar-Baramulla section. Additionally, the Bhagpur-Sirwal-Pathankot, Batala-Pathankot, and Pathankot-Joginder Nagar (Himachal Pradesh) sections will also fall under its jurisdiction. Jammu Tawi station will serve as its headquarters, acting as the central hub for railway operations and administration.
This will be the sixth division of Northern Railways, with an investment of approximately ₹198 crore in its construction. This will boost the expansion and improved management of rail facilities in the Jammu and Kashmir region.
A Technological Marvel of Bridges and Tunnels
A defining feature of the Jammu division's rail network is its extensive and complex network of bridges and tunnels. In total, the division comprises 3114 bridges and 58 tunnels. Many of these bridges and tunnels are considered engineering marvels. Notably, the world's highest railway bridge, the Chenab Bridge, is part of this division, a remarkable feat of engineering in mountainous terrain.
Furthermore, the country's first cable bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge, is also located within this division. The tunnels include some of the country's longest rail tunnels, such as T-49 and T-80, enhancing connectivity while overcoming the region's geographical challenges.
Expanding Railway Reach in Jammu and Kashmir
- 1972: First train arrived in Jammu.
- 2005: Rail service extended to Udhampur.
- 2009: Process initiated to connect Kashmir by rail.
- 2013: First train ran between Banihal and Baramulla.
- 2014: Direct rail service restored to Katra.
- 2024: Train service commenced between Banihal and Baramulla.
- 2025: Train to run from Kashmir to Kanyakumari (Kashmir Vande Bharat Express).
Composition of the New Jammu Rail Division
- Pathankot-Jammu-Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail section: 423 kilometers.
- Bhagpur-Sirwal-Pathankot: 87.21 running kilometers.
- Batala-Pathankot: 68.17 running kilometers.
- Pathankot-Joginder Nagar narrow gauge hill section: 172.72 kilometers.
Significance of the Jammu Railway Division
The creation of the Jammu Railway Division will not only improve transportation in the Jammu and Kashmir region but also provide new opportunities for tourism, social amenities, and economic development. Strengthening the railway network in a challenging mountainous region like Kashmir will improve daily life and create new employment opportunities. The expansion of the railway network will strengthen local industries and businesses. Improved safety measures will also be implemented, with enhanced railway management focusing on passenger safety and comfort.
Technological and Economic Impact
After the new division's establishment, train services will operate on approximately 538 kilometers of broad-gauge lines. Around 55 trains will operate under the Jammu division, including Vande Bharat, Shatabdi, and express trains. This will not only provide passengers with faster, more convenient, and safer services but will also increase freight train operations, boosting the region's economic growth.
₹198 crore will be spent on the construction of railway buildings and other infrastructure, increasing employment opportunities and ensuring proper development of local infrastructure.
Future Prospects
The formation of the Jammu Railway Division is a major step towards connecting Kashmir to India's main rail network. In the coming years, this division will work towards operating new trains, providing advanced rail facilities, and enhancing the passenger experience. The Vande Bharat Express running from Kashmir to Kanyakumari will provide a fast and safe travel option through this division. The expansion of the rail network will not only benefit passengers but will also open new avenues for stability, economic prosperity, and social development in the region.
