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Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday flagged off the 20-coach Vande Bharat Express connecting Jammu and Srinagar, marking the first direct rail link between the two capitals of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, a 20-coach semi-high-speed train, commenced operations on May 2, 2026, marking a historic connection between the two cities. This new service significantly reduces travel time to under five hours, offering a reliable, all-weather alternative to road travel and boosting regional tourism and economic growth.

Jammu and Kashmir Bank Apprentice Recruitment 2026 online application process closes today, May 3, 2026, for 614 posts across Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and other regions in India. Candidates with a graduation degree completed on or after January 1, 2022 can apply through jkb.bank.in after registering on the NATS portal. The selection will be based on an online written examination. The apprenticeship offers a 12-month training period with a monthly stipend of Rs 13,500.

Thousands marched in Srinagar against drug abuse and narco-terrorism, led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. The campaign, launched on April 11, has seen significant crackdowns, including FIRs, arrests, and property seizures, aiming to dismantle drug networks and protect youth. Sinha emphasized a united front against those fueling terrorism and addiction.

Tragedy struck in Jammu's Thuther area as a collapsed bridge during repair work claimed three lives. Rescue operations recovered the bodies after a section of the structure gave way. Authorities have launched a probe, suspending two engineers and forming a committee to investigate the incident and prevent future mishaps. One worker and a rescuer were also injured.

Heavy landslides have blocked key routes in Jammu and Kashmir. The Baramulla-Uri highway faced disruption near Lagama, with traffic diverted. The Doda-Kishtwar road also saw a major blockage near Gatsoo. Meanwhile, a bridge collapse in Jammu's Bantalab area tragically claimed the lives of three labourers. Authorities are working to clear debris and ensure safety.

Following a deadly terror attack in Kashmir, India launched precision strikes on militant camps in Pakistan, escalating tensions to a full military standoff. Despite Pakistan's nuclear threats, India maintained a strong stance, ultimately leading to a ceasefire after significant damage to Pakistani military assets.

Rail travel in Jammu & Kashmir is set for a major upgrade with the new Vande Bharat Express connecting Jammu and Srinagar, launching April 30. This advanced, all-weather train promises a significantly reduced travel time of five hours, boosting tourism. Extensive safety checks and infrastructure upgrades ensure a smoother, safer journey for all.

Iltija Mufti, a PDP leader, protested the government's plan to remove Urdu knowledge as a requirement for Jammu and Kashmir Revenue Service jobs. She stated this move attacks the region's linguistic heritage. Mufti argued Urdu connects communities and is a repository of knowledge. She questioned the government's priorities and vowed to resist the changes.

A new 20-coach Vande Bharat Express now connects Jammu and Srinagar directly, significantly cutting travel time to five hours. This direct rail link, a first for the two cities, will operate six days a week starting May 2.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah refuted claims of removing Urdu from revenue jobs, stating a proposal is under consideration for public feedback, not a final decision. He challenged the PDP to produce an order, accusing them of misrepresenting the process.