Vaishnaw flags off from Jammu, calls it growth lifeline
Jammu: 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-off ceremony at Jammu Railway Station in the presence of Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Members of Parliament Ghulam Ali Khatana and Sat Paul Sharma, 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. He said that regional cuisines, including Dogri and Kashmiri dishes, have been introduced onboard, offering a culturally enriching journey, particularly for pilgrims and tourists.
Highlighting technological advancements, Vaishnaw stated that Vande Bharat trains for Jammu and Kashmir are specially designed to operate in extreme weather conditions, including temperatures as low as minus 10 degrees 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 Rs 50 per bag.
He said 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.
Vaishnaw said that two Vande Bharat services with 20-coach configurations are now operational, with a focus on ensuring stability and maintenance in the challenging Himalayan terrain and tunnel systems. He added that work is underway to double the railway line between Qazigund and Baramulla to enhance capacity. Projects such as the Poonch–Rajouri rail link and the Uri–Baramulla extension are in planning and DPR stages.
The Minister further highlighted that the government is undertaking key infrastructure initiatives, including the redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station with additional platforms and improvements to the Jalandhar–Jammu rail link. He also noted that Union Cabinet approval for the Delhi–Ambala four-laning project will further enhance connectivity and benefit residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
Later, speaking to mediapersons onboard the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, Vaishnaw said that a major transformation has taken place in rail connectivity with the operationalisation of the Jammu–Srinagar rail link. He said improved connectivity has significantly enhanced the ease of transportation of both goods and passengers.
He added that the service will benefit passengers from across the country by providing rail access to the hilly region of Jammu and Kashmir with a single interchange at Jammu, round the year, with services operating twice daily.
Highlighting the impact on freight movement, the Minister said transportation of automobiles, two-wheelers, cement, steel, and salt to the Kashmir Valley has become more efficient. At the same time, the improved rail network has facilitated faster and more reliable movement of horticultural and perishable produce such as apples, cherries, milk, and other fruits to markets across the country.
He said the Railways is now focusing on increasing the carrying capacity of trains operating between Jammu and Srinagar. Key initiatives, including the installation of automatic signalling systems and construction of additional crossing stations, are being undertaken to enhance operational efficiency and ensure seamless train movement.
The Minister said that Jammu Tawi Railway Station is being redeveloped at a rapid pace with a modern design. He added that four railway stations are currently being constructed or upgraded across Jammu and Kashmir to improve passenger amenities and infrastructure.
On the 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.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Jitendra Singh said the introduction of this direct train service is set to significantly enhance ease of travel, improve logistics efficiency, and promote ease of doing business across the region. He said improved rail connectivity is expected to boost tourist and pilgrim inflow and facilitate 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. He was accompanied by Dr Jitendra Singh and senior railway officials. (PIB)
