New Delhi, July 16, 2025 — In a major push for infrastructure development and religious tourism, the Ministry of Railways has sanctioned a Final Location Survey (FLS) for a new rail line between Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. The proposed 77.96 km-long railway stretch is expected to enhance connectivity to the holy shrine and ease travel for millions of devotees.
The FLS will be conducted at an estimated cost of ₹12.59 crore and will be overseen by Northern Railway, which has been entrusted with executing the project.
The proposed line aims to offer a more direct and efficient route to the revered shrine town of Katra, one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India. Currently, pilgrims rely heavily on existing rail and road networks, which often experience high congestion, especially during the peak pilgrimage season.
Railway officials say the project is part of Indian Railways’ broader strategy to expand and modernize its network in regions of high public and strategic importance. Apart from easing religious travel, the new line is also expected to stimulate tourism and contribute to the economic growth of the Jammu region.
“The Final Location Survey is the first major step toward realizing this important connectivity project, which will significantly benefit both pilgrims and local communities,” Northern Railway officials stated.
This move underscores Indian Railways’ ongoing commitment to infrastructure development, with a focus on improving access to key destinations across the country.
