PM Modi Says “ A Great Day For J&K, Indian Railways”
Srinagar: The arrival of the first logistics goods train from Rupnagar, Punjab, at Anantnag railway station marks a significant advancement in freight operations in south Kashmir.
The inaugural train, operated by Northern Railway under the Jammu Division, carried a consignment of cement in 21 BCN wagons, covering a distance of approximately 600 kilometers to the newly commissioned Anantnag Goods Shed. The cement is intended for essential infrastructure projects in the Kashmir Valley, including roads, bridges, and housing. This initiative is part of the Baramulla–Srinagar–Banihal railway corridor, which is a component of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the economic benefits of this development, stating that it will significantly lower transportation costs for residents and businesses in the region. Ghulam Ahmad, an apple grower from Shopian, expressed optimism about the freight service, calling it a “game changer” for local fruit growers, as it will facilitate quicker and more cost-effective delivery of produce. Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to virtually inaugurate the Vande Bharat Express train service between Amritsar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra on August 10, further enhancing connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. This new service will be the fifth Vande Bharat train linked to the region, complementing existing routes to Delhi and other areas, thereby improving overall commerce and connectivity.
