In a significant development for pilgrims and regular commuters, the Amritsar-Katra Vande Bharat Express has officially resumed its operations today, June 16, 2026. This high-speed train service, which connects the holy city of Amritsar with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, returns to the tracks after a hiatus of approximately one year. The resumption comes with a major strategic shift in its operational route, aimed at providing better connectivity to several key towns in Punjab that were previously not on the Vande Bharat map.
Reason for the Temporary Suspension
The suspension of this vital rail link was necessitated last year due to severe weather conditions, while heavy rainfall in the region had led to significant damage to a crucial railway bridge located on the Pathankot-Jammu rail section. Safety being the paramount concern for Indian Railways, the service was temporarily halted to allow for extensive repairs and infrastructure assessment. After a year of dedicated work and route planning, the railway authorities have decided to bring back the service with a revised itinerary that maximizes regional benefit.
The New Route and Strategic Changes
One of the most notable changes in the restored service is the complete overhaul of the route. Previously, the Amritsar-Katra Vande Bharat Express operated via Beas and Jalandhar City. However, under the new operational plan, these stops have been replaced. The train will now travel via Batala, Gurdaspur, and Pathankot. This decision is expected to be a boon for the residents of Batala and Gurdaspur, who will now have direct access to a high-speed Vande Bharat service for the first time. This change not only streamlines the journey but also integrates more urban centers into the premium rail network.
Detailed Schedule for Train Number 26405 (Amritsar to Katra)
According to the official notification issued by Indian Railways, the service from Amritsar to Katra (Train Number 26405) commences today, June 16, 2026.
- Amritsar Junction: The journey begins with a departure at 16:40.
- Batala Junction: The train arrives at 17:18 and departs at 17:20.
- Gurdaspur: Arrival is scheduled for 17:58 with a departure at 18:00.
- Pathankot Junction: The train reaches at 18:32 and leaves at 18:42 after a 10-minute halt.
- Jammu Tawi: Arrival at 20:03 and departure at 20:05.
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra: The final destination is reached at 21:45.
Detailed Schedule for Train Number 26406 (Katra to Amritsar)
The return journey from Katra to Amritsar (Train Number 26406) is scheduled to begin tomorrow, June 17, 2026.
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra: Departure at 06:40.
- Jammu Tawi: Arrival at 08:03 and departure at 08:05.
- Pathankot Junction: Arrival at 09:35 and departure at 09:45.
- Gurdaspur: Arrival at 10:15 and departure at 10:17.
- Batala Junction: Arrival at 10:54 and departure at 10:56.
- Amritsar Junction: The train concludes its journey at 11:40.
Impact on Pilgrims and Regional Connectivity
The restoration of this service is expected to Notably boost the number of passengers traveling between Amritsar and Katra. For devotees planning their visit to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, the Vande Bharat Express offers a faster, more comfortable, and premium travel alternative compared to conventional trains. Railway officials anticipate a surge in bookings as the train provides a easy connection for those looking to combine their visit to the Golden Temple in Amritsar with a pilgrimage to Katra. The inclusion of Batala and Gurdaspur in the route is a strategic move that addresses long-standing demands for better rail connectivity in these regions, ensuring that the benefits of modern rail infrastructure reach a wider population.