JAMMU, April 30: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted the significant acceleration in rail expansion across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly beyond Jammu city, since 2014, attributing this progress to the proactive approach of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. He noted that while the first train reached Jammu in 1972, it took nearly five decades for rail connectivity to extend to Srinagar, with substantial development in railway infrastructure in the Union Territory now aligning with national standards.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the recent commencement of the augmented 20-coach Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express signifies a pivotal achievement in transforming rail connectivity within Jammu and Kashmir. Dr Singh made these remarks while addressing attendees at the Jammu Railway Station during a flagging-off ceremony, which was also attended by Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw.
Dr Jitendra Singh emphasized that the introduction of this direct train service between Jammu and Srinagar is poised to substantially enhance travel convenience, improve logistical efficiency, and foster a more conducive environment for business across the region. He stated that the operation of the Vande Bharat Express fulfills a long-standing aspiration of the residents of the region.
The Union Minister underscored the expected surge in pilgrim inflow to significant religious and tourist destinations within the region, alongside facilitating the seamless and efficient movement of security personnel. He further elaborated that improved connectivity is anticipated to reduce travel durations, enhance accessibility to remote areas, and integrate local economies more closely with the broader national markets.
Addressing the economic implications, Dr Singh stated that the new rail service will play a crucial role in strengthening supply chains and decreasing transportation costs for essential commodities and local agricultural produce. This enhanced connectivity is expected to provide a significant boost to local trade and commerce.
The Minister also highlighted the immense cultural and tourism potential unlocked by the rail corridor, which traverses through some of the most picturesque and previously less accessible locations. Areas like Sangaldan in Ramban district, which were difficult to reach earlier, are now more accessible, potentially leading to increased tourist footfall and renewed interest from filmmakers. Dr. Singh expressed optimism that this development would revive the region’s historical legacy as a favoured destination for film shooting by making remote and pristine locations more reachable.
Dr. Jitendra Singh conveyed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for enabling this landmark direct rail connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. He recalled that Prime Minister Modi had personally visited the region to inaugurate the Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station shortly after assuming office in 2014, underscoring the government’s consistent focus on improving connectivity and infrastructure in the region.
Subsequently, Dr. Singh travelled on the Vande Bharat Express along with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to visit the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station and the Chenab Bridge. Speaking to reporters, Dr Jitendra Singh described the project as a pilot initiative, citing its technological sophistication and execution in challenging Himalayan terrain, suggesting it might be a pioneering project globally. He indicated that the knowledge and experience gained from this project would be replicated in other hilly and mountainous regions, including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and the Northeastern States. He also extended his appreciation to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav for his continuous support and for addressing all project-related requirements.
Following this, Dr Jitendra Singh accompanied Shri Vaishnaw to inspect the Anji Bridge and the Chenab Bridge, both situated along the Vande Bharat Express route.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
