K H Snippets : Defining Moments Of The Week

Srinagar: From the extension of the Vande Bharat Express to Jammu Tawi to key developments in infrastructure, healthcare, and youth engagement, this week in Jammu and Kashmir saw important moves aimed at improving connectivity and public services. Here’s a quick look at the top highlights:-
1. Vande Bharat Express Extended Up To Jammu Tawi, Inaugural Run On April 30: Northern Railway has announced the extension of the Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express up to Jammu Tawi to enhance passenger convenience in the Jammu Division. The inaugural service of the extended train (No. 02601) will operate on April 30, 2026, departing from Jammu Tawi at 10:30 am. The train will halt at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra for boarding and de-boarding before proceeding towards Srinagar, where it will reach its destination at 3:05 pm.
2. CM Omar Approves ₹9.60 Cr Multi-Level Parking Project in Ganderbal: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has accorded administrative approval for the construction of a Multi-Level Car Parking facility in Ganderbal at an estimated cost of ₹9.60 crore. The project, sanctioned under the Capex Budget 2026–27, has been approved in favour of the Director, Urban Local Bodies, Kashmir. It is aimed at easing growing traffic congestion in the rapidly expanding town and strengthening urban infrastructure to meet increasing vehicular pressure.
3. Youth Must Shape Policy, Not Just Receive Benefits, Says Mandaviya : Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday this week said that young people must be active participants in governance and policy-making, not just beneficiaries of government schemes. Addressing the Chintan Shivir at SKICC Srinagar, he said every young voice must find space in decision-making processes to strengthen India’s development journey.
4. Union Minister Inaugurates First ESIC Hospital In Kashmir: Union Labour and Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the first Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) hospital in Kashmir at Ompora, Budgam. The 30-bed facility, built at a cost of ₹165 crore, is expected to benefit over 50,000 workers and their families, with scope for expansion up to 100 beds.