The long-awaited railway connection between Kashmir and the rest of India is set to become a reality on April 19, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the first train to the Valley from Katra.
The historic event will take place in the presence of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, among others.
This marks the completion of decades of efforts to connect Kashmir by rail. Currently, train services operate only between Sangaldan and Baramulla, with long-distance trains terminating at Katra. The new service will bridge this crucial gap, allowing passengers to travel seamlessly to Kashmir.
Before flagging off the train, PM Modi will visit the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River in Reasi district. Officials will brief him on its construction and significance as an engineering feat.
After the inspection, Modi will travel to Katra, where he will inaugurate the new train service and address a public rally. He will then return to New Delhi from Udhampur Army Airport.
Initially, the train will run between Katra and Baramulla. However, once expansion work at Jammu Railway Station is completed likely by July-August train services will originate from Jammu instead of Katra. As of now, there will be no direct trains from Delhi or other cities to Kashmir; passengers will need to switch trains at Katra, and later at Jammu.
Security has been a major focus in the preparations for the train service. Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan recently reviewed security arrangements, along with top railway officials, ensuring a safe launch.
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) spans 272 kilometers, with 209 kilometers commissioned in phases since 2009. The final 17-kilometer stretch between Reasi and Katra was completed three months ago, allowing successful trial runs, including for the Vande Bharat Express. The entire project, which cost ?41,000 crore, has been one of India’s most challenging infrastructure endeavors.
Kashmir will also receive a specially designed Vande Bharat Express that will operate between Katra and Srinagar. Built by Chennai’s Integral Coach Factory (ICF), the train is equipped with anti-freezing technology, allowing smooth operation even in temperatures as low as -20°C.
It also features advanced heating systems for passenger comfort and enhanced safety features, including CCTV cameras and an Emergency Talk Back Unit. Though not bulletproof, it has shatterproof windows for added security.
With this long-awaited rail connectivity, Kashmir is set to witness a major transformation in transportation, enhancing both tourism and economic opportunities in the region. (KNS)
