Now Reading: Rail Ministry approves 100 kmph train speed on Katra-Banihal section
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Rail Ministry approves 100 kmph train speed on Katra-Banihal section
The Railway Ministry has granted approval to increase the maximum permissible speed of trains to 100 kmph on the 111-km new broad gauge rail section between Katra and Banihal in Jammu. The Vande Bharat train has already operated at this speed over the world's highest railway bridge on the Chenab River for the first time. Northern Railway officials confirmed the decision after all prescribed safety conditions were met.
Earlier, the speed limit was 85 kmph on the Katra-Sangaldan stretch and 75 kmph on the Sangaldan-Banihal section. The speed enhancement is expected to reduce travel time, improve connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir, and boost tourism, trade and economic activities. The Chenab Rail Bridge, 359 meters above the river bed, is taller than the Eiffel Tower and built to resist heavy winds and earthquakes.
Indian Opinion Analysis
Both greaterkashmir.com and assamtribune.com report the story in a neutral, straight news style, leading with the speed increase and attributing all information to railway officials. Greater Kashmir focuses on the ministry approval and safety compliance, while Assam Tribune adds the Vande Bharat's first run on the Chenab bridge and its engineering details. Neither outlet offers any critical perspective or alternative framing, making the coverage uniformly promotional. The key detail missing is whether any testing or risk assessment preceded the decision. The next step is to watch for further speed increases on the full Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla link as it nears completion.
Coverage: 2 sources, 2 neutral
Sources (2): greaterkashmir.com (neutral report), assamtribune.com (neutral report)
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above. Methodology and corrections.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
