Khatana Seeks Metro Connectivity for J&K

New Delhi: MP Rajya Sabha Nominated and senior BJP leader Gulam Ali Khatana on Friday highlighted the transformative impact of rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir and sought clarity on the possibility of introducing metro services in the region.
Raising a supplementary during question Hour MPKhatana highlighted the long-standing aspiration of the people of Kashmir for year-round rail connectivity. He commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for maintaining uninterrupted train services even in harsh winter conditions, which garnered global attention and reflected the enthusiasm of the local population. Khatana also raised concerns regarding the Rajouri–Poonch region, which often faces isolation during winter due to heavy snowfall, impacting civilian and security movement. He expressed gratitude for the government’s recent announcements aimed at improving connectivity in this area. Additionally, he inquired about potential metro rail projects in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the tourism potential of the region and Jammu’s identity as the “City of Temples.” In response, the Railway Minister clarified that metro projects fall under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and assured that Mr. Khatana’s query would be forwarded to the relevant Minister. The Minister acknowledged previous discussions regarding proposed rail spur lines from the Srinagar–Baramulla section to tourist destinations like Pahalgam, noting that concerns from farmers about the impact on apple orchards had been considered. Consequently, the decision was made to enhance the main Baramulla–Srinagar line while postponing the spur lines. Regarding the Rajouri–Poonch rail link, the Minister reported that survey work is advancing swiftly to enhance connectivity in the border area. He also emphasized that trains operating in high-altitude regions require specialized technical designs due to extreme weather conditions, and the deployment of specially designed rolling stock has proven effective during the recent winter season.
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