Indian Railways has decided to operate the New Delhi-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Special train on a diverted route instead of cancelling it. This decision by the Northern Railway and Jammu Division aims to help pilgrims and passengers avoid travel disruptions during the summer season.
ℹ️: Train Route Extension: Indian Railways extends services for Sabarmati and Azamgarh Express via Basti।
What is the new route and schedule for Train 04081/04082?
The special trains will now follow a revised path to ensure continuity of service. Train 04081 from New Delhi will travel via Ghaziabad, Saharanpur Junction, and Ambala Cantt. The return service, Train 04082 from Katra, will follow the reverse path via Ambala Cantt, Saharanpur, and Ghaziabad to reach New Delhi.
| Train Number | Direction | Operating Dates |
|---|---|---|
| 04081 | New Delhi to Katra | May 29, June 1, June 3 (2026) |
| 04082 | Katra to New Delhi | May 30, June 2, June 4 (2026) |
Which stations will be skipped and why?
Due to the route diversion, these trains will not stop at Panipat and Kurukshetra stations. Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Jammu Railway Division, stated that the change was made to prioritize passenger convenience and ensure devotees can reach the shrine without facing cancellations.
To manage the heavy rush, the railways had previously added an extra sleeper class coach to these trains, increasing the total capacity to 22 coaches. The operation of these special reserved express trains has also been extended until July 15, 2026, to accommodate the summer pilgrim traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will Train 04081 stop at Panipat or Kurukshetra?
No, due to the route diversion via Saharanpur and Ambala, Train 04081 and 04082 will skip stoppages at Panipat and Kurukshetra.
What are the operating dates for the New Delhi to Katra special train?
Train 04081 will operate on May 29, June 1, and June 3, 2026.