Vande Bharat Speed Boost: 100 kmph on Katra-Banihal from Oct 2

Passengers traveling through the Jammu and Kashmir region are set for a much faster journey. Starting Friday, October 2, 2026, the Vande Bharat Express and other train services will operate at a maximum permissible speed of 100 kmph on the Katra-Banihal rail section.

The directive, which takes effect at 00:00 hours, was issued by the Senior Divisional Operations Manager (SDOM) of Northern Railway. The implementation details were confirmed following a directive issued on September 30, 2026.

Safety Approvals and Speed Enhancements

This speed increase follows official approval granted by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on August 19,