Kashmir Vande Bharat Update: Tighter Security at Chenab Bridge Following Pahalgam Terror Attack, Katra-Srinagar Train Launch Delayed

The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which targeted tourists, has cast a shadow over the region’s tourism and infrastructure projects, including the highly anticipated Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express. As a result of the heightened threat perception, security measures have been significantly intensified, especially around the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, and the Anji Bridge, both located along the key Srinagar-Katra railway corridor.

Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Launch Postponed Again

The launch of the Katra to Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, a flagship semi-high-speed train project aimed at boosting connectivity to Kashmir, has been temporarily put on hold. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was originally scheduled to flag off the inaugural journey on April 19, 2025, but inclement weather conditions led to a postponement.

Now, following the Pahalgam terror attack, officials are re-evaluating security protocols before finalizing a new launch date. The Ministry of Railways has not issued an official statement on rescheduling the flag-off ceremony, and uncertainty looms over the immediate commencement of operations.

Tightened Security Around Chenab Bridge and Rail Infrastructure

The Chenab Bridge, located in the Reasi district, stands as the tallest railway bridge in the world, and is considered a strategic infrastructure asset. In light of recent security threats, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has significantly ramped up deployments along the entire Srinagar-Katra rail line, focusing on key assets:

• Chenab Bridge

• Anji Cable-Stayed Bridge

• Critical railway tunnels and control rooms

• Trackside signaling and communication infrastructure

According to Himanshu Shekhar, Chief Public Relations Officer of Northern Railways, a comprehensive multi-agency security grid involving the RPF, local police, and intelligence agencies is now actively monitoring the area. Surveillance from surrounding hill regions has also been intensified to pre-empt any threats.

Chenab Bridge: A National Engineering Marvel Now Under Tight Vigil

The Chenab Rail Bridge, which towers 359 meters above the river, is not only a vital transportation link but also a symbol of engineering excellence. Given its stature and importance in connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India, authorities have marked it as a “red zone” in terms of security preparedness.

• More RPF units have been stationed at key structural nodes

• Night-vision surveillance and drone monitoring have been initiated

• Coordination with Army and J&K Police has been scaled up for intelligence sharing

What’s Next for the Kashmir Vande Bharat?

While logistical and infrastructure readiness is largely complete, the Pahalgam incident has triggered a re-evaluation of the operational timeline for the Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir. Sources indicate that a new launch date could be announced after a detailed security assessment is completed across the line.

This project, seen as a critical element in integrating Kashmir with the rest of India, has drawn massive public interest, especially among tourists and local commuters. Until then, security remains the top priority, and any delays will be driven by safety considerations.