3,000 CCTV cameras, drones, RPF commandos deployed
Regular operations from May 2
Srinagar, Apr 30: Ahead of the commencement of the much-anticipated Vande Bharat Express service between Jammu and Srinagar, authorities have established a robust, multi-tier security grid, including the installation of around 3,000 CCTV cameras, drone surveillance, and deployment of armed Railway Protection Force (RPF) commandos along the route.
The service was flagged off on Thursday (April 30) by Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, with regular operations scheduled to begin from May 2.
Speaking to reporters, Pankaj Gangwar, Principal Chief Security Commissioner of the Indian Railway Protection Force Service, said the launch marks the operational beginning from Jammu. “Today is the start of this service from Jammu. Its regular service will begin from May 2,” he said, adding that extensive security arrangements have been put in place to safeguard both the train and the railway infrastructure.
Gangwar said an initial “one plus twenty” security model has been deployed. “An inspector will lead the team, which also includes eight RPF commandos who will ensure security along the route,” he said, adding that the personnel are equipped with advanced weapons and supported by surveillance systems.
Senior Superintendent of Police (Railways), Wasim Qadri, also highlighted the scale of monitoring along the track. He said nearly 3,000 CCTV cameras have been installed to maintain continuous surveillance, while drones are being used for aerial monitoring of sensitive stretches. “Adequate deployment of security personnel has been ensured to maintain a safe and secure environment for passengers,” he added.
The all-weather train service is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to just 4 hours and 50 minutes, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and boosting regional connectivity.
According to the schedule, the first train will depart from Jammu Tawi at 6:20 AM and reach Srinagar at 11:10 AM, halting at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Reasi, and Banihal. On its return journey, the train will leave Srinagar at 2:00 PM and arrive at Jammu Tawi by 6:50 PM. This service will operate six days a week, except Tuesdays.
A second service will depart Srinagar at 8:00 AM and reach Jammu Tawi at 12:40 PM, with stoppages at Banihal and Katra. The return service will leave Jammu Tawi at 1:20 PM and reach Srinagar at 6:00 PM. This train will run six days a week, except Wednesdays.
