Sabarmati to Katra: New Direct Train Service Launched
Pilgrims traveling from Gujarat to the holy shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi can now enjoy a much more convenient journey. The Ministry of Railways has officially launched a direct train service connecting Sabarmati to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, eliminating the need for passengers to switch trains at Jammu Tawi.
This new service is set to transform connectivity for travelers across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab, providing a seamless link to one of India's most revered religious sites. The expansion is expected to significantly boost religious tourism, local trade, and regional employment opportunities.
Daily Train Schedule and Timings
The new service operates on a daily basis with two dedicated train numbers to manage the route efficiently:
Sabarmati to Katra (Train No. 19223)
- Departure: Sabarmati at 10:25 AM
- Arrival: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 6:55 PM (the following day)
- Service Commencement: October 18, 2026
Katra to Sabarmati (Train No. 19224)
- Departure: Katra at 4:50 AM
- Arrival: Sabarmati at 2:05 PM (the following day)
- Service Commencement: October 20, 2026
New Stoppages and Enhanced Accessibility
To ensure the service benefits a wider range of passengers, Indian Railways has introduced several new halts along the route. The trains will now stop at:
- Samba
- Bari Brahmana
- Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan
According to Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, these operational details aim to streamline the travel experience. Furthermore, a spokesperson from the Northern Railway Jammu Division highlighted that Katra serves as the primary base camp for pilgrims, and these new halts are specifically designed to assist military personnel, industrial workers, traders, students, and local residents in the Jammu region.
"These halts are intended to provide better access for various sectors including military and industrial workers," the spokesperson emphasized, noting the importance of the route for both locals and travelers.