Srinagar, Oct 19: Union Minister of Railways, Communications, Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and other dignitaries, unveiled the Valley’s first Vistadom Coach on Thursday.
“ This technologically advanced train will revolutionise the travel experience for both local passengers and tourists in the picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir,” Vaishnaw.
In his speech via video conferencing, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the substantial changes witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir over the past several years under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He emphasised the rapid development taking place in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370, including the recent hosting of G20 meetings in the Union Territory.
Vaishnaw highlighted the completion of development work on the Chenab Bridge, Anji Bridge, and tunnels in Jammu and Kashmir, with efforts focused on an overall transformation of the North Eastern states.
Addressing the reporters at Srinagar railway station, LG Manoj Sinha said that Vistadom Coach is a technologically advanced train, boasting features such as rotating seats, power sockets for charging, transparent glass roofs and windows, and automatic doors equipped with sensors.
“This state-of-the-art addition promises to enhance the travel experience for all those who explore the beautiful region of Jammu and Kashmir, he said.
LG Sinha expressed his gratitude to Pm Narendra Modi for introducing Vistadome train services in the Kashmir Valley. I am highly thankful to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for elevating the travel experience of people & tourists, he said.
“The Vistadome services will have a profound impact on tourism and contribute to the economic growth and cultural enrichment of the region. Vistadome is a symbol that facilities available in developed countries are now accessible to people of J&K,” he said.
LG Sinha said the Vistadom Coach promises a contemporary travel adventure for both local commuters and tourists in the Valley. With these coaches, travellers will have the opportunity to intimately connect with the natural splendour as they journey through Budgam, Qazigund, and Banihal, he said.
The Lt. Governor said the specially designed Vistadome coach between Budgam and Banihal, is equipped with wide windows, revolving chairs and glass rooftop, offering the passengers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
“The Vistadome coach is designed to provide a 360-degree view of the train expedition, featuring expansive glass windows and swiveling seats. This innovation allows passengers to either fully immerse themselves in the breath-taking scenery outside or easily engage in conversations with fellow travellers by adjusting their seats accordingly,” he said.
LG Sinha said the newly introduced train will run the route from Budgam to Banihal, emphasizing that it is just a matter of time before the railway network connects Kashmir to Kanyakumari. The introduction of the Vistadom Coach represents another significant step in the developmental journey of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
LG said after the G-20 summit, there has been a remarkable 350 per cent increase in foreign tourist arrivals in Jammu and Kashmir. In comparison to last year’s 1.88 crore tourist arrivals, the region has already welcomed 1.70 crore tourists up to September 30 this year. Remarkably, the J&K administration is setting its sights on achieving a total of 2.25 crore tourist arrivals by the end of the year, he added.
LG Sinha said the new train is set to do more than just transport passengers between Budgam and Banihal; it will also create employment opportunities for the youth in Budgam, Qazigund, and Banihal.
He said the prevailing peace has brought about a shift in the mindset of the youth, motivating them to actively participate in the developmental initiatives of Jammu and Kashmir.
On the occasion, Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chief Minister, Assam said, the Prime Minister has laid emphasis on the development of Jammu and Kashmir and North East states since he assumed office.
