Srinagar: Sharing details about J&K-specific provisions in the Union Budget 2025 related to railway infrastructure and development projects, Railway Minister AshwaniuVaishnaw on Monday informed that an allocation of Rs 844 crore has been earmarked for the UT.
Talking of the government’s commitment to further enhancing railway infrastructure and connectivity in J&K, Vaishnaw provided an update on key railway infrastructure and development projects in the region.
He announced that all necessary testing processes for the much-awaited Katra-Srinagar railway line have been completed, and commercial operations will commence soon. He did not however specify any date for the formal inauguration of the train service between Katra and Srinagar.
Linking it with the ongoing redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station, he said once completed, “direct railway connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar will be operational” – again not specifying any timeline.
The minister emphasized the significant progress made in railway electrification, noting that since 2014, a total of 344 km of railway tracks have been electrified, making Jammu & Kashmir 100 percent electrified.
Addressing a query regarding the need for passengers to change trains at Katra Railway Station for onward travel to Srinagar, Vaishnaw explained that this requirement arises due to the varying terrain and climatic conditions. The redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station is being planned with these factors in mind to ensure seamless travel.
Providing financial and developmental insights, the Union Minister stated that since 2014, a total of 135 km of new railway tracks have been constructed in Jammu & Kashmir, improving regional connectivity and accessibility.
He also informed that four major railway stations Budgam, Jammu Tawi, Katra, and Udhampur are being developed as ‘Amrit Stations’ at a total cost of Rs. 292.5 crore, enhancing passenger amenities and station infrastructure.
The budgetary allocation and development projects reaffirm the government’s dedication to modernizing railway infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir, fostering economic growth, and improving connectivity in the region, Vaishnaw further added. (With additional inputs from PTI)
