Railway ministry greenlights survey for additional Jammu-Katra rail line

Jammu, July 16: In a significant move to enhance connectivity in Jammu region and facilitate pilgrimage, the Ministry of Railways has sanctioned Final Location Survey (FLS) for an additional new rail line between Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra covering a length of 77.96 kilometres.

The survey will be undertaken by Northern Railway at an estimated cost of Rs 12.59 Cr.

“This Final Location Survey (FLS) will lay the groundwork for the future construction of this vital railway link. Northern Railway, the executing authority for this project, will oversee the FLS. It will be conducted at an estimated cost of Rs 12,59,17,363 to lay the groundwork for this future Railway Line,” said Northern Railway Chief Public Relations Officer, Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyay.

“This initiative is expected to enhance rail connectivity to the prominent pilgrimage destination of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and improve transport infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

The sanction for the FLS was issued via Railway Board communication dated July 14, 2025 addressed to the General Manager, Northern Railway.

Upadhyay said that the additional new line was expected to significantly ease travel for the devotees visiting the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, offering a more direct and efficient route.

“It also reflects the ongoing efforts by Indian Railways to expand and modernise its network nationwide, particularly in regions of high strategic and public importance,” he said.

Upadhyay stated that the initiative was designed not only to enhance pilgrimage, tourism but also to contribute to the economic growth and development of the Jammu region.

“This strategic project underscores Indian Railways' commitment to bolstering infrastructure and improving accessibility to key destinations,” Chief Public Relations Officer, Northern Railway said.