New Delhi, June 10: J&K CM Omar Abdullah met Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi today and discussed issues related to the augmentation of rail services in Jammu & Kashmir.
While appreciating the quality of service and punctuality of the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, the Chief Minister requested a stoppage of the train at Anantnag and the augmentation of railway services to the Kashmir Valley, particularly during the scheduled closure of Srinagar Airport in October for maintenance work.
He also proposed an increase in the frequency of Vande Bharat services to the Kashmir Valley, particularly during the scheduled closure of Srinagar International Airport from October 1 to 15, 2026, for runway maintenance works.
Abdullah said the temporary shutdown, coinciding with a peak tourist and pilgrimage period, could affect the movement of visitors and residents, and stressed the need for strengthened rail services as an alternative mode of transport during the period.
He added that enhanced rail connectivity would help ensure uninterrupted passenger movement and support tourism and economic activity during the airport closure.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister appreciated the performance of the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, describing it as a key milestone in improving rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country.
|