SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference on Thursday welcomed the decision to provide a stoppage for the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express at Anantnag, describing it as a significant step towards improving rail connectivity and promoting economic growth in South Kashmir.
In a joint statement, Minister for Education, Health and Social Welfare Sakina Masood Itoo and National Conference legislators Altaf Ahmad Wani (Pahalgam), Dr. Bashir Ahmad Veeri (Bijbehara), Abdul Majeed Bhat Larmi (Anantnag West), Zafar Ali Khatana (Kokernag), Showkat Hussain Ganie (Zainapora), Ghulam Mohiuddin Mir (Rajpora), Reyaz Ahmad Khan (Shangus-Anantnag East) and Peerzada Feroze Ahmad (Devsar) termed the decision the fulfilment of a long-pending public demand of the people of South Kashmir.
The legislators said the introduction of a halt at Anantnag would provide relief and convenience to commuters, students, traders, tourists and patients who depend on efficient transport connectivity for travel and professional engagements.
They observed that the decision would further improve accessibility to South Kashmir and strengthen its integration with the broader railway network.
Describing Anantnag as an important economic and cultural centre of South Kashmir, the legislators said the new stoppage would provide a boost to local trade, tourism, business activity and employment opportunities in the region.
They expressed gratitude to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for their efforts in addressing the aspirations of the people and ensuring that the demand received due consideration.
The legislators also appreciated the role played by National Conference Members of Parliament in pursuing the matter and contributing towards securing the train halt.
They noted that the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat service has already transformed travel in Jammu and Kashmir by reducing travel time and offering modern passenger facilities, adding that the inclusion of Anantnag as a stoppage would further enhance the service’s accessibility and utility for the people of South Kashmir.
