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Katra, Jammu and Kashmir – In a landmark development poised to transform connectivity and economic prospects in the region, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today lauded the upcoming Vande Bharat Express project as "historic." Speaking to the media after reviewing preparations for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's inaugural journey in Katra, Abdullah highlighted the project's long-awaited completion, humorously noting its inception when he was a seventh-grader.
The Vande Bharat Express, scheduled to commence operations is set to significantly strengthen the crucial link between Jammu and Srinagar. This state-of-the-art train has been specifically engineered to navigate the challenging winter conditions of the Kashmir Valley, ensuring reliable service year-round.
Chief Minister Abdullah emphasized the profound impact the Vande Bharat Express will have on mitigating the severe issues faced by commuters and traders during highway closures. "When the highway is closed, the price of tickets increases from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000. The movement of people stops and the movement of cargo vehicles is also affected," he stated. He expressed confidence that the new train service would substantially alleviate these problems, proving immensely beneficial for the populace.
Beyond passenger relief, Abdullah stressed the train's potential to inject a significant boost into the regional economy. He elaborated on how it would facilitate the easy transportation of Jammu and Kashmir's rich horticultural produce, such as apples, cherries, and other fruits, to wider markets. Furthermore, the Chief Minister pointed out that the train's arrival would eliminate the prevalent issue of extortion and exorbitant fares that often arise when highway access is disrupted.
With preparations for the flagging-off ceremony by Prime Minister Modi in full swing, the Vande Bharat Express project is widely regarded as a pivotal moment, signaling a new beginning for Jammu and Kashmir's infrastructure and economic development.