Suhail Bhat
Srinagar, June 6: Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu today said that the arrival of Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir marks a “new dawn” of connectivity, economic revival and national integration.
Talking to reporters at Nowgam Railway Station in Srinagar, he said the train’s inauguration is a powerful response to terrorism and a symbol of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s development vision for Jammu and Kashmir. “Today, a new beginning has taken place. A new treasure has been opened for Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
Referring to recent terror incidents, the Minister said that while people are saddened, the Government’s response is rooted in infrastructure and growth. “The Prime Minister has responded to Pakistan with development. While they believe in bombs and bullets, we are connecting Kashmiris with a developed India, he added.
Singh highlighted that the Vande Bharat now connects Srinagar to Katra and will extend to Jammu by September once some ongoing work in the Jammu sector is completed.
He also announced that goods trains would soon operate in the region, enabling the transport of cherries, apples, cement, and other products, enhancing trade, and reducing dependence on road transportation. “Time is precious. When goods trains run, our cherry trees, fruits, and cement will reach across the country efficiently,” he added.
Highlighting the economic and cultural impact, Singh said the train service would boost tourism, hospitality, and the entertainment sector. “Whether it is the film industry or singers, they will now find it easier to come here. Flights can only bring so many people and limited luggage. But this train can carry a whole city if needed,” he said.
He also called the launch an Eid gift for the people of Kashmir. “This is a festival and a beginning. What better gift than connectivity and hope?” he said, adding that within a month, more facilities would be functional.
He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. “I come from a border state, Punjab. I know what development means. I thank the Prime Minister for assigning me duty here in Srinagar. This launch is not just a journey; it is a message to the world that Kashmir is moving forward,” he said.
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