As Jammu welcomed the first direct Vande Bharat Express to the Kashmir valley on Thursday, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw pledged efforts to connect remote areas like Poonch, Rajouri, and Uri to India’s extensive rail network.
The launch event, held in Jammu, highlighted the completion of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). The Minister revealed that detailed project reports (DPRs) are ready for projects aimed at connecting Poonch and Rajouri to the national railway system, alongside an extension of railway services to Uri, a border town in Baramulla district.
Prominent figures including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Jitendra Singh attended the ceremony.
This direct train service drastically reduces travel time between the twin capitals of Jammu and Kashmir. It also has the potential to increase tourism while offering an all-weather transport option.
On June 6, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the initial direct train service between Katra and Srinagar, extending the service to Jammu Tawi Railway Station.
The Rs 43,780-crore rail project began in the late 1990s, with the first train operating in the Kashmir Valley since October 2008.
Talking to reporters post-inauguration, Vaishnaw emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing accessibility. “We will connect Poonch and Rajouri with rail networks. The project to connect Uri is already underway,” he stated.
“The DPRs for these projects are finalized, and we aim to initiate work soon,” Vaishnaw added.
The Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express has emerged as a significant milestone for the region, which Vaishnaw referred to as a lifeline for Jammu and Kashmir.
“This train service marks a major accomplishment for the people,” he said, pointing out the overwhelming demand leading to increasing its capacity from eight to twenty coaches.
“We received requests to augment passenger-carrying capacity. Now, 20 coaches will cater to more than 1,400 passengers, compared to the previous 500,” he noted, stressing the train’s role in transporting essential goods like cement, cars, and fruits.
Reports indicate that the introduction of this railway service led to a decrease in cement prices by approximately Rs 50 per bag, with about 2 crore kg (20,000 tons) of apples successfully transported to other parts of India.
Vaishnaw also assured that the Vande Bharat Express operates effectively in all weather conditions. “This train continues to run during severe winters, withstanding temperatures as low as minus 10 degrees Celsius,” he said.
Citing significant advancements, he stated, “This is the first train operational at such high altitudes, significantly easing transportation across the region.”
Chief Minister Abdullah appreciated the efforts of the Railways Minister and the central government. “I thank Vaishnaw on behalf of the people of Jammu and Kashmir for enhancing rail connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated during the ceremony.
Highlighting the economic impact, Abdullah remarked on the transport of goods like cement, cars, and agricultural products, which could significantly enhance business opportunities in the region.
“I propose the establishment of an inland port in J&K to streamline customs clearance for our exports,” Abdullah said, emphasizing the advantages of local customs processing for lowering trade barriers.
While acknowledging his ongoing discussions with the Centre on this matter, Abdullah called upon union ministers and local MPs to advocate for this critical infrastructure project.
Reflecting on the awaited railway connectivity, Abdullah stated, “The people of J&K had long anticipated this opportunity. The direct service negates the need for road travel, which was often inconvenient.”
Abdullah emphasized the popularity of the train service, expressing his initial surprise at the demand for reservations. “Now, with additional coaches, we can meet our travel needs adequately,” he concluded.
Jitendra Singh supported Abdullah’s statements, pointing out that the direct train service between Jammu and Srinagar would spur economic prosperity in the union territory and facilitate easier access for tourists and pilgrims.
“We attribute our gratitude to the Prime Minister for making this journey possible, as the train between Jammu and Katra launched after a lengthy wait of over four decades has now been extended,” he added.