Srinagar, February 3: In a significant announcement, Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union Minister for Railways, revealed that commercial operations for trains to Kashmir are set to begin soon. Additionally, he disclosed that 100% electrification of railway tracks in Jammu and Kashmir has been successfully completed. The announcement was made during a video press conference held from Rail Bhawan, New Delhi.
The Minister informed that testing procedures for the Katra-Srinagar railway line, a much-awaited project, have been completed, and the train services will commence shortly, marking a new chapter in the region’s connectivity.
Vaishnaw further highlighted that the redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station is underway and, once finished, will provide direct railway connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar, thereby enhancing the travel experience for passengers between the two cities. This development is seen as an essential step in improving regional connectivity and facilitating easier access for travelers.
The Minister also shared vital updates on various railway infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir. He informed that the Union Budget 2025 includes provisions aimed at further boosting railway development in the region. An impressive Rs. 844 crore has been allocated specifically for railway infrastructure projects in J&K, underscoring the government’s continued commitment to improving connectivity and fostering economic growth in the region.
Emphasizing the progress in railway electrification, Vaishnaw mentioned that since 2014, a total of 344 kilometers of railway tracks in Jammu and Kashmir have been electrified, making it the first region in the country to achieve 100% electrification. This significant milestone enhances the environmental sustainability of railway operations and improves the overall efficiency of the transportation system.
Addressing a query regarding the need for passengers to change trains for travel to Srinagar, Vaishnaw explained that this requirement stems from the terrain and climatic conditions in the region. He assured that the redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station will be designed with these factors in mind, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free travel experience for passengers.
On the development front, the Minister revealed that 135 kilometers of new railway tracks have been constructed in Jammu and Kashmir since 2014, greatly enhancing regional accessibility. Moreover, four major railway stations — Budgam, Jammu Tawi, Katra, and Udhampur — are being developed as ‘Amrit Stations’ with an investment of Rs. 292.5 crore. These upgrades aim to enhance passenger facilities and overall station infrastructure, creating modern, world-class stations for travelers.
“The budgetary allocation and ongoing development projects clearly reaffirm the Government’s dedication to modernizing railway infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, fostering economic growth, and improving connectivity in the region,” Vaishnaw added.
With these developments, the region is poised for a significant transformation in its railway connectivity, opening up new opportunities for travel, trade, and tourism, and paving the way for enhanced socio-economic progress in Jammu and Kashmir.