JAMMU, June 9: A special rail service connecting Jammu and Haridwar will be operated on the occasion of Somvati Amavasya, providing a significant boost to religious travel for devotees from Jammu and Kashmir. The initiative comes in response to a long-standing public demand for dedicated transportation to the holy city during one of the most important occasions in the Hindu calendar.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh welcomed the decision and conveyed his appreciation to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for approving the special train service. He described the move as a reflection of the government’s continued efforts to address public concerns and improve facilities for pilgrims across the region.
The proposal for the special service was taken up after representations highlighting the difficulties faced by devotees travelling to Haridwar during peak pilgrimage periods. The demand was formally brought to the attention of the Railway Ministry through a communication submitted by Dr. Singh, which included a request from social and public representatives seeking better travel arrangements for worshippers.
As per the approved plan, the special train will operate from Jammu to Haridwar ahead of the Somvati Amavasya observance and return the following day, enabling pilgrims to undertake the journey comfortably and participate in religious rituals without facing transportation constraints.
Dr. Singh noted that the decision demonstrates the Centre’s responsiveness to the aspirations of citizens and its commitment to strengthening public services. He said the government has consistently worked towards ensuring that genuine concerns raised by people receive timely attention and appropriate action.
The announcement has generated a positive response among residents and religious groups, many of whom had been seeking additional rail connectivity during major spiritual events. Devotees believe the dedicated train service will reduce travel difficulties, ease overcrowding on regular routes and provide a more convenient option for families undertaking the pilgrimage.
Haridwar attracts thousands of worshippers from across northern India during Somvati Amavasya, a day considered highly auspicious for performing religious ceremonies and taking a holy dip in the Ganga. The availability of a special train is expected to facilitate smoother movement of pilgrims from Jammu and neighbouring areas.
Local community members welcomed the development, describing it as a practical and people-centric measure that acknowledges the spiritual and cultural significance of the occasion. They expressed hope that similar services would continue to be introduced during major religious festivals in the future.
The special Jammu–Haridwar train is expected to play an important role in ensuring a safe, comfortable and hassle-free pilgrimage experience for devotees travelling to the sacred destination for the upcoming observance.