The Member of Parliament representing the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha constituency has called for the introduction of additional Vandebharat and Haridwar-bound trains to Jammu during this session of the Lok Sabha. The Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) also requested separate Divisional status for Jammu akin to Firozpur, the commencement of a regular second train from Jammu to Haridwar, and the initiation of a new train connecting Katra, Jammu, and Jaipur for convenience to both pilgrims and the general public.
Haridwar holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, encompassing practises like performing last rites and engaging in routine monthly pilgrimages during Amavasya and Purnima days, as well as on special occasions like eclipses and other significant days according to the Hindu calendar. Presently, Jammu faces limited connectivity, with the Hemkunt Express being the sole regular train plying between Jammu and Haridwar, leading to a considerable surge in passenger demand. Notably, there is an absence of luxury bus services between Jammu and Haridwar, leaving trains as the only convenient option. A similar concern revolves around the Vandebharat train operating between Jammu and Delhi, originating from Katra and having a touch-and-go halt at Jammu Railway Station. Given its Katra origin, the train primarily caters to pilgrims, leaving passengers travelling from Jammu to Delhi with limited options. This situation is further complicated by the scarcity of affordable air flights to Delhi, characterised by steep airfares that are beyond the reach of the common individual, leading to extensive waitlists.
The JCCI has underlined the crucial need for additional train routes, particularly emphasising the proposal for new superfast trains originating from Rajasthan. These proposed routes aim to facilitate the pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra. The JCCI’s suggestion is rooted in feedback received from numerous pilgrims regarding their journeys to Jammu. In essence, the concerns raised by the MP and the JCCI shed light on the pressing requirement to enhance transportation options for religious and general travel, and their proposals seek to ameliorate the existing constraints and improve connectivity for the people of Jammu and the surrounding regions.
However, it’s important to acknowledge certain constraints that must be addressed before additional train services can become a reality. To begin with, Jammu Railway Station currently operates with a limited number of passenger platforms, which inherently restricts the station’s capacity to accommodate a specific number of travellers. This capacity is already under strain, and the station lacks adequately spacious waiting areas. As a consequence, returning tourists frequently find themselves utilising the platforms as makeshift waiting zones throughout the day. Furthermore, an inherent challenge lies in the fact that every train terminating at Jammu must undergo an essential and time-consuming process of thorough cleaning and overhauling. This process, which is integral to maintaining the safety and operational efficiency of the trains, is currently operating beyond its designed capacity. In addition, every train originating from Jammu is required to be replenished with water for the passengers’ use. This procedure is not only time-consuming but also faces capacity limitations given the existing resources. These factors, among others, present significant challenges that must be thoughtfully addressed in the process of redeveloping Jammu Railway Station.
Currently, this entire area falls under the jurisdiction of the Firozpur Divisional Office. The call for a distinct Divisional office in Jammu has persisted for an extended period, and it is crucial for the Government to seriously consider this proposal. Such a move would facilitate a more targeted and dedicated approach to the development of the Jammu-Srinagar section, as well as pave the way for the expansion of routes like Srinagar-Ladakh and Jammu-Poonch-Rajouri. Beyond operational advantages, the establishment of a Divisional office in Jammu would yield substantial benefits for local employment and the regional economy. This move has the potential to provide a significant impetus to the area’s growth and development.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
