Inaugural run of Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat flagged off
Poonch-Rajouri rail link, Uri-Baramulla line projects under planning
Nishikant Khajuria
JAMMU, Apr 30: Flagging off inaugural run of much awaited direct Vande Bharat train between Jammu and Srinagar, here today and describing it as a landmark achievement in the history of Indian Railways, the Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the Government is now focusing to enhance existing operational capacity of trains in the Union Territory and connecting remote areas like Poonch-Rajouri and Uri to the country’s rail network,
Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp
“Our next target is to enhance existing capacity of the rail network in Jammu Kashmir and acting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for next 50 years, we are working on projects such as connecting Poonch- Rajouri and Uri with the rail line,” he said, while addressing the gathering in presence of Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and others.
Click here to watch video
The Railway Minister said that work is underway for doubling of the railway line between Qazigund and Baramulla to enhance capacity while projects such as the Poonch-Rajouri rail link and the Uri-Baramulla extension are under planning and DPR stages. Once the DPRs are prepared, the work on these projects will start soon, he added.
Vaishnaw further informed that key infrastructure initiatives, including installation of automatic signalling systems and construction of additional crossing stations, are being undertaken to enhance operational efficiency and ensure seamless train movement in Jammu Kashmir. Other technological and operational innovations are also being introduced, he added.
The Minister highlighted that the Government is undertaking key infrastructure initiatives, including the redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station with additional platforms and improvements in the Jalandhar-Jammu rail link. He also noted that the Union Cabinet has accorded approval for the Delhi-Ambala four-laning project, which will further enhance connectivity and provide benefits to the residents of Jammu & Kashmir.
Mentioning that Jammu Tawi Railway Station is being redeveloped at a rapid pace with a modern design, the Minister informed that a total of four railway stations are currently being constructed or upgraded across Jammu and Kashmir to provide improved passenger amenities and infrastructure.
Informing that two Vande Bharat services comprising 20-coach configurations, are now operational between Jammu and Srinagar from May 2, the Railway Minister announced that an additional 8-coach Vande Bharat will also be introduced on the route once the timing and schedule for the same are chalked out by the Railway authorities.
The Minister emphasized that improved rail connectivity in J&K has significantly boosted freight operations and contributed to reducing the cost of essential commodities, including cement priced below 50 rupees per bag. He informed that efficient logistics have enabled the supply of essential goods, including products from Amul, and facilitated the transportation of over 2 crore kilograms of apples from Kashmir to Delhi. He added that transportation of perishable produce such as cherries is also expected to become easier, benefiting farmers and traders in the region.
Highlighting the transformative impact of the service for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister termed it an important lifeline that provides seamless connectivity, promotes tourism, and strengthens the regional economy.
The Minister noted that the Vande Bharat service in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed 100 percent occupancy from the very first day of operations, reflecting strong public acceptance. He further informed that over 5.5 lakh passengers have already travelled on these trains. The Minister said that regional cuisines, including Dogri and Kashmiri dishes, have been introduced onboard, offering a culturally enriching journey, particularly for pilgrims and tourists.
Highlighting the technological advancements, Vaishnaw stated that Vande Bharat trains for Jammu and Kashmir are specially designed to operate in extreme weather conditions, including temperatures as low as minus 10 degree Celsius. He said the trains are equipped with advanced operating systems and electronics suited for high-altitude conditions.
During the flagging off ceremony, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and J&K BJP president, Sat Sharma; MP (RS) Gulam Ali Khatana, MLAs Yudhvir Sethi, Narinder Singh , Vikram Randhawa, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Northern Railway General Manager Rajesh Kumar Pandey and Divisional Railway Manager, Vivek Kumar were present on the dais.
Later, speaking to mediapersons onboard the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, Vaishnaw stated that a major transformation has taken place in rail connectivity with the operationalisation of the rail link between Jammu and Srinagar. The improved connectivity has significantly enhanced the ease of transportation of both goods and passengers in the region. He said that it will benefit passengers from all over the country by providing access by railways to the hilly region of Jammu and Kashmir by a single exchange at Jammu round the year with services being provided twice a day.
On upcoming Amarnath Yatra, the Minister assured that special arrangements will be made by the Railways to facilitate pilgrims, with a focus on safety and convenience.
After reaching Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Station, the Railway Minister inspected the Anji Bridge and the Chenab Bridge on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). He was accompanied by Union Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh and senior Railway officials.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
