Special Train Announced Between Budgam and Katra as National Highway 44 Closes

SRINAGAR, August 1, 2026 — Railway authorities have announced a special train service operating between Budgam and Mata Vaishno Devi Katra following the closure of National Highway 44 between Srinagar and MCTM.

The closure caused a sudden rush of stranded commuters at both Srinagar and Mata Vaishno Devi Katra stations, prompting officials to introduce the special route to clear passenger congestion.

The outward service departs from Budgam at 1:00 PM, arriving in Srinagar at 1:12 PM and departing at 1:17 PM. The train continues through BAHL with an arrival at 2:15 PM and SGDN at 2:58 PM, reaching Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 4:20 PM.On the return trip, the train leaves Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 5:05 PM, stopping at SGDN at 5:50 PM, BAHL at 6:40 PM, and Srinagar at 8:00 PM, before completing its journey at Budgam at 8:30 PM.

This temporary service is expected to provide smooth transit for all affected travelers.