Work underway in Kashmir region to enhance rail infrastructure

Srinagar, Mar 15: In a bid to ensure a smooth travel experience for passengers in the Kashmir Valley, officials have announced several initiatives aimed at improving railway infrastructure, with additional plans in the pipeline.
Chief Area Manager (CAM) Kashmir, Saqib Yousuf Yatoo (IRTS), disclosed that a significant portion of the USBRL project has been completed, bringing it closer to integration with the national railway network. He highlighted ongoing construction activities along the Baramulla-Sangaldan track, emphasizing the relentless progress in various projects.
CAM Yatoo also underscored the efforts to enhance passenger amenities at the Amit station in Budgam and the construction of a goods terminal at the Anantnag station.
The Indian Railways, in a recent development, successfully conducted a trolley run on the critical Banihal-Khari railway stretch of the USBRL project, marking significant progress.
In a move to bolster security measures, high-resolution Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras have been installed across major platforms in the Valley. This initiative aims to monitor railway stations effectively and ensure the safety of passengers.
Furthermore, plans are underway to install complaint or suggestion boxes at railway stations to encourage passengers to voice their grievances and provide suggestions for improving facilities.
CCTV feeds will be monitored at multiple levels to enhance safety and security, providing the Railway Protection Force (RPF) with additional tools for surveillance. The recorded video footage will be stored for a period of 30 days.
The Budgam station is undergoing a comprehensive makeover as part of the nationwide “Amrit Bharat Station Scheme,” encompassing over 500 railway stations across India. This initiative aims to upgrade facilities, including multimodal integration, infrastructure enhancements, and overall station modernization.
The modernized stations will boast state-of-the-art amenities such as multiple entrance gates, well-designed platforms, escalators, lifts, and facilities for differently-abled individuals, enriching the overall passenger experience.
With over 500 railway stations identified for redevelopment under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, the initiative is poised to revolutionize railway infrastructure across various states and Union Territories, ushering in a new era of connectivity and comfort for passengers.