Katra, Dec 30: In a historic event today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the second Vande Bharat Train, strengthening the rail connectivity between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and New Delhi.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Union Minister of State, PMO, Dr Jitendra Singh, joined the flag-off ceremony from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station.
Expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister, Lieutenant Governor Sinha acknowledged the significance of the new Vande Bharat Train for the Union Territory, particularly in providing ease of travel for devotees and enhanced comfort for citizens.
“This is a historic day for J&K. The second Vande Bharat Train for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra – New Delhi route will provide ease of travel to devotees and greater comfort for the citizens,” said Lt Governor Sinha.
Highlighting the accelerated infrastructure development in J&K under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, Lt Governor Sinha emphasized the last-mile connectivity that has contributed to inclusive development, ease of living in remote areas, and increased economic activities.
“The UT of J&K has made impressive strides in socio-economic development in the last four years. It is a symbol of our unshakable commitment to the all-round progress of the Union Territory,” he added.
Reiterating the commitment to inclusive growth, Lt Governor Sinha stated, “Under the guidance of Prime Minister, we are determined and working for the four pillars, four castes – poor, youth, women, and farmers, who will be the architects of the developed India.”
Lt Governor Sinha also emphasized the remarkable growth in the tourism sector, mentioning the efforts to strengthen the religious tourism circuit. He expressed hope for the initiation of Heli service from Katra to Shiv Khori in the coming days, further boosting tourism and the local economy.
The inauguration of the second Vande Bharat Train signifies a milestone in enhancing connectivity and convenience for travellers on this crucial route, reinforcing the commitment to the socio-economic development of the region.
