Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and NC President Dr. Farooq Abdullah recently took a ride on the newly inaugurated Vande Bharat Express from Srinagar to Katra, calling it a monumental step for the region. Overjoyed by the experience, he emphasized how this modern rail link will revolutionize tourism and boost the local economy. “This reliable transport will save people from exorbitant airfares and road closures, while also speeding up the delivery of Kashmiri horticulture produce to markets,” he shared.
The Vande Bharat Express, flagged off by PM Narendra Modi on June 6, slashes travel time between Srinagar and Katra to just three hours. With 37 tunnels and iconic structures like the world’s tallest Chenab Railway Bridge, the route is an engineering marvel. Abdullah got emotional upon arrival, saying, “Tears welled up in my eyes—I never imagined this day would come when we could travel seamlessly by train from Kashmir to the rest of India.”
Designed for the region’s rugged terrain, the train offers premium amenities like ergonomic seating, Wi-Fi, bio-vacuum toilets, and advanced safety features including KAVACH technology. Its seamless connectivity is set to transform travel, trade, and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, marking a new era of growth for the Valley.