New Delhi: The wait is almost over for Kashmir as it prepares to integrate into India’s rail network for the first time, marking a pivotal moment in its history. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off the inaugural train service from Katra to Baramulla on April 19. This historic event embodies the realization of a long-held dream for direct rail access, transforming the valley’s connectivity landscape.
The train service will bridge Katra to Baramulla, effectively integrating Kashmir into the Indian rail network. Currently, the Kashmir Valley operates a railway line between Banihal and Baramulla, which, although functional, remains isolated from the rest of the country. The missing link has been the Banihal-Katra section—a crucial part of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link project. This new connection promises to revolutionize transportation in the region.
Following the flagging off ceremony, PM Modi is expected to address a rally in Katra, joined by prominent figures such as Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The trial runs on the Katra-Baramulla track have been successfully completed, with the Commissioner of Railway Safety giving the green light for service commencement.
Initially, only one train will operate on the Katra-Srinagar route, with plans to introduce additional trains based on demand. However, due to security considerations, passengers will need to disembark at Katra for inspection before boarding another train to continue their journey to Kashmir.
