Jammu, Apr 30: Apart from the multi-layered security setup along the 327-kilometre Jammu-Katra-Srinagar-Baramulla railway line, 21 security personnel, including RPF commandos, will guard the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express service launched by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday, an official said.
Vaishnaw on Thursday flagged off the 20-coach train, which is expected to cut travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to five hours, here in the presence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh.
Talking to reporters, Pankaj Gangwar, principal chief security commissioner, Indian Railway Protection Force Service, said, “Today is the start of this service from Jammu. Its regular service will begin from May 2.”
He said a comprehensive security grid has been put in place to protect the railway line as well as the Vande Bharat train.
“For initial security, we have deployed a ‘one plus twenty’ guard system. An inspector will lead the team, which also includes eight Railway Protection Force (RPF) commandos who will ensure security along the route,” Gangwar said, adding that they are fully equipped with advanced weapons.
The official said the railways will also operate a pilot vehicle ahead of the train for security purposes. “It will move in advance in the morning and address any shortcomings along the route,” he said.
Furthermore, guard posts have been established at every 2 kilometres, manned by quick reaction teams consisting of Government Railway Police and civil police personnel.
