India, April 29 -- The Indian Railways has expanded the Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express to 20 coaches from 8, responding to sustained high demand, while extending its route to Jammu Tawi to improve regional connectivity. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will flag off the upgraded service, with regular operations set to begin from May 2.

The augmentation more than doubles passenger capacity, easing reservation pressure and catering to rising demand from pilgrims, tourists, and daily commuters. The extension eliminates the need for interchange at Katra, enabling seamless travel between Jammu, Vaishno Devi, and Srinagar on a single train service.

Two pairs of trains will operate across the 266-km corridor, offering morning and afternoo...