New Era for Connectivity: Vande Bharat Express to Link Jammu and Srinagar

The Indian government is set to launch the Vande Bharat Express train service bridging Jammu and Srinagar starting April 30, 2024, with an expanded capacity of 20 coaches to match rising demand, confirmed Union Minister Jitendra Singh. Initially slated to operate last year from Jammu, the service's debut was postponed due to renovation works at the Jammu railway station, subsequently starting from Katra. Minister Singh hailed the completion of these upgrades as a crucial step for the significantly enhanced rail connectivity in the region.

The premium Vande Bharat train, which first ran on June 6, 2023, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the completion of the vital Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, offering Jammu and Kashmir its first all-weather rail connection. Singh attributed the project's advancement to Modi's emphasis on infrastructure development since his term began in 2014, noting that tracks reaching beyond Jammu marked a milestone towards integrating Kashmir with the rest of India.

Despite the accolades, concerns have surfaced regarding a proposed route shift for the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch rail line, which business leaders like Arun Gupta believe may negatively impact local communities by bypassing established population hubs. Gupta is appealing for the government to adhere to the original surveyed alignment to maximize benefits for residents and businesses.

(With inputs from agencies.)