In order to alleviate the adverse impact of unexpected regional airport closures on passengers, Indian Railways has launched a special Vande Bharat Express service from Udhampur to New Delhi on May 9, 2025, offering a fast and comfortable solution. This special service provides a reliable and timely alternative for passengers suffering from disruptions in air transportation, once again demonstrating the passenger-centric approach of Indian Railways.
A Railway Solution to the Airline Crisis
Temporary flight cancellations at airports in Srinagar and Jammu have created serious transportation problems for residents and visitors. In the face of this unforeseen situation, Indian Railways has taken swift action by commissioning its modern high-speed train fleet, Vande Bharat Express, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity between the Union Territory and the capital. This special service not only provides a means of transport but also promises passengers a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
Route and Timing: Fast and Effective Connection
Operating under the flight number 02460, Vande Bharat Express departs from Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Station in Udhampur at 12:45 in the afternoon and reaches New Delhi at 22:15 at night. This long journey of 630 kilometers in total is completed in a short time of just 9 hours and 30 minutes. The train has strategic stops at Jammu Tawi, Pathankot Cantt, Jalandhar Cantt, Ludhiana Junction and Ambala Cantt Junction stations, which are important centers of the region. Thanks to these stops, passengers traveling to other cities on the route can also benefit from the speed and comfort of Vande Bharat Express.
Comfort and Modern Amenities Together
The special Vande Bharat Express train consists of 20 modern carriages meticulously designed for the comfort and pleasure of the passengers. 18 of these carriages are air-conditioned chair type (AC Chair Cars) and stand out with their comfortable seating arrangement and spacious interior. For passengers looking for a more advanced travel experience, there are 2 Executive AC Chair Cars. These carriages offer passengers a privileged journey with their wider seating areas and additional services. Reflecting the general standards of the Vande Bharat Express fleet, the carriages on this special journey are also equipped with amenities such as modern air conditioning systems, comfortable seats, reading lights and mobile device charging units.
Ticket Prices: Accessible Comfort
Indian Railways has followed a reasonable pricing policy on this special journey, considering the budget of the passengers. The current exchange rate is 1 Indian Rupee (₹) = 0,Based on 0117 US Dollars ($), The ticket price for the AC Chair Car is set at ₹2.000 (approximately $23,40), while the ticket price for the Executive AC Chair Car is offered at ₹3.580 (approximately $41,90). This pricing is quite affordable considering the speed, comfort, and modern amenities offered by Vande Bharat Express.
Passenger-centric approach from Indian Railways
This fast and effective solution by Indian Railways clearly demonstrates the importance the institution attaches to passenger satisfaction. Taking immediate action and organizing a special flight in the face of unforeseen airline disruptions is a concrete indication of its efforts to minimize passenger inconvenience. Thanks to Vande Bharat Express’ modern infrastructure and comfortable travel facilities, a reliable and fast alternative is offered to passengers who cannot travel by air. This initiative proves that Indian Railways is not just a transportation provider, but also has a solution-oriented approach that is sensitive to the needs of its passengers. It is expected that Indian Railways will continue to support its passengers in similar situations in the future.
