The Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, on Thursday flagged off the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express augmented from 8 to 20 coaches.
Speaking at the flagging of ceremony in presence of Union Science and Technology Minister, Dr Jitendra Singh, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Members of Parliament Ghulam Ali Khatana and Sat Paul Sharma at Jammu Railway Station, Vaishnaw described it as a landmark achievement in the history of Indian Railways.
He highlighted the transformative impact of the service for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, terming 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% 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.
ZSSD.jpeg)
Highlighting the technological advancements, Vaishnaw stated that Vande Bhaart 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.
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.
Vaishnaw informed that two Vande Bharat services comprising 20-coach configurations, are now operational, with a focus on ensuring stability and maintenance in the challenging Himalayan terrain and tunnel systems.
He further stated that work is underway for doubling of the railway line between Qazigund and Baramulla to enhance capacity. He informed that projects such as the Poonch–Rajouri rail link and the Uri–Baramulla extension are under planning and DPR stages.
A0NJ.jpeg)
The Minister further 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 approval for the Delhi–Ambala four-laning project will further enhance connectivity and provide benefits to the residents of Jammu & Kashmir.
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.
Highlighting the impact on freight movement, the Minister noted that transportation of automobiles, two-wheelers, cement, steel and salt to the Kashmir Valley has become more efficient.
Simultaneously, the improved rail network has facilitated faster and more reliable movement of horticultural and perishable produce such as apples, cherries, milk and other fruits from the Valley to markets across the country.
The Minister said that the Railways is now focusing on increasing the carrying capacity of trains operating between Jammu and Srinagar.
He 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. Other technological and operational innovations are also being introduced.
II78.jpeg)
The Minister said that Jammu Tawi Railway Station is being redeveloped at a rapid pace with a modern design.
He 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.
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.
RMK1.jpeg)
Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space Dr Jitendra Singh said the introduction of this direct train service to Jammu and Kashmir is set to significantly enhance ease of travel, improve logistics efficiency, and promote ease of doing business across the region.
The Minister emphasized that improved rail connectivity is expected to lead to a substantial rise in tourist and pilgrim inflow to important destinations in the region, while also facilitating seamless and efficient movement of security personnel.
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 for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh and senior railway officials.
