Srinagar, Feb 10: Northern Railway’s Jammu Division has enhanced passenger amenities with the introduction of a Vistadome coach on the Budgam–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra special train, a move aimed at promoting rail-based tourism and improving connectivity in the Kashmir Valley.
The special train, recently extended up to Katra from Banihal effective February 11, now offers an upgraded travel experience for both local commuters and tourists, railway officials said. The initiative is part of the Division’s ongoing efforts to expand passenger facilities and enrich journeys on key routes.
Equipped with wide glass windows and a transparent roof, the Vistadome coach provides passengers with panoramic, 360-degree views of the scenic landscape, including mountains, rivers, valleys, and tunnels along the route. The design allows travellers to enjoy an immersive rail experience while remaining seated in comfort. Such coaches have previously been deployed on select tourist routes across India, including the Konkan Railway and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, Uchit Singhal told Rising Kashmir: “The Vistadome coach will make the journey comfortable and memorable. Passengers can enjoy a view of the sky through the glass roof and uninterrupted sights of natural beauty through large windows, making the train journey more engaging.”
Singhal added that the extension of the Budgam special train to Katra, along with the Vistadome coach, will particularly benefit pilgrims visiting the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine and tourists exploring Kashmir. “The direct rail link is expected to reduce travel inconvenience and provide a seamless journey between the Valley and one of the country’s major pilgrimage destinations,” he said.
Railway officials noted that passenger response to the upgraded amenities will be closely monitored, with the possibility of introducing similar facilities on other routes in the future, depending on demand and operational feasibility.
