The train service from Jammu to Srinagar was inaugurated yesterday at the Jammu Railway Station, following which it will now be regularly available to serve passengers. Notably, the service is set to commence tomorrow—May 2nd. Regarding the train’s security, an official provided details stating that to ensure the safety of the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, 21 security personnel—including commandos from the Railway Protection Force (RPF)—will be deployed along the 327-kilometer-long Jammu-Katra-Srinagar-Baramulla railway route, in addition to a multi-layered security framework.
**When Does the Train Service Begin?**
Pankaj Gangwar, Principal Chief Security Commissioner (PCSC) of the Indian Railway Protection Force Service, stated, “This service is commencing from Jammu. Regular operations will begin on May 2nd.” He added that comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place to safeguard both the railway line and the Vande Bharat train.
**21 Security Personnel Deployed for Safety**
Gangwar explained, “For the initial security phase, we have deployed 21 security personnel. The team includes 8 commandos from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), who will provide security along the entire route.” He noted that these commandos are equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry. The official further mentioned that security posts have been established at intervals of every 2 kilometers. Addressing tunnel security, he stated that a dedicated tunnel control system has been installed.
**Sensors to Alert Against Abnormal Activity**
He stated, “Sensors have been installed to detect any abnormal activity, such as a fire outbreak.” Furthermore, emergency tunnels have been constructed to facilitate the safe evacuation of passengers who may become stranded during an emergency situation. The RPF commandos are also referred to as ‘CORAS’. They were previously deployed last year to provide security for the Vande Bharat train operating between the Kashmir Valley and Katra. The official stated that the 327-kilometer-long railway line, constructed at a cost of approximately ₹43,780 crore, comprises 36 tunnels and 943 bridges.
