Former J&K chief minister Farooq Abdullah hails Vande Bharat train as a game-changer for Kashmir tourism

Boarding the inaugural Srinagar-Katra service, Dr. Farooq Abdullah underscores improved connectivity, faster market access for local produce, and enhanced economic opportunities in the region

Srinagar: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and current National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah embarked on a journey from Srinagar to Katra aboard the Vande Bharat train on June 10. Speaking before boarding, he highlighted that this new rail service would greatly benefit the region by enhancing connectivity, stimulating tourism, and improving the local economy. He emphasized that the train offers a reliable alternative to often unpredictable road travel, which can be disrupted, and addresses the challenge of expensive air travel.

Dr. Abdullah pointed out that the enhanced rail link would not only ease travel but also benefit Kashmir’s horticulture by allowing produce to reach broader markets quickly. Upon reaching Katra, his emotion was evident as he remarked on how he had long awaited such seamless connectivity from Kashmir to the rest of India. He also took the opportunity to congratulate the engineers and workers responsible for constructing the country’s highest railway bridge, a landmark achievement on this route.

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Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, the Vande Bharat service reduces the travel time between Srinagar and Katra to just three hours. The rail link itself is an engineering marvel, featuring 37 tunnels and numerous bridges including the Chenab Railway Bridge, which is the world’s tallest railway bridge, standing 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower, and the Anji cable-stayed railway bridge, India’s first of its kind. These impressive structures underscore the strategic importance and technical prowess behind the project.

Designed for the region’s challenging weather and topography, the Vande Bharat train offers modern amenities and enhanced safety features. Passengers can enjoy fast acceleration, a top speed of 160 km/hr, and a range of comforts such as ergonomic seating, mobile charging sockets, onboard catering, and Wi-Fi connectivity. The train further prioritizes safety with features including KAVACH signaling technology, CCTV cameras in every coach, emergency systems, fully sealed gangways, and specialized facilities for the physically challenged. This comprehensive suite of features ensures a smooth, secure, and enjoyable journey for all travelers.