The decision of the Northern Railway’s Jammu division to operate additional special trains between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar is not just a logistical move; it is a deeply significant intervention at a time when Kashmir’s connectivity is repeatedly tested by weather and terrain. In recent weeks, the Valley has witnessed heavy snowfall, leading to frequent closures of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, the lifeline that connects Kashmir with the rest of the country. Air transport too has faced severe disruptions, with flights cancelled or delayed due to poor visibility and snow accumulation on runways. For a region where mobility is already fragile, these interruptions leave thousands stranded, cut off from essential services, and isolated from opportunities. Against this backdrop, the introduction of special trains is a welcome relief, a gesture that prioritizes passenger convenience and highlights the importance of reliable, cost-effective connectivity.
Railways in Kashmir have historically been a dream deferred. For decades, the Valley remained outside India’s railway map, dependent almost entirely on road and air transport. This dependence created a monopoly of airlines, where ticket prices soared during peak seasons, making travel unaffordable for many. The completion of the Banihal–Baramulla rail link marked a turning point, offering Kashmiris a new mode of transport that was not only cheaper but also more resilient against weather vagaries. The current decision to run special trains between Katra and Srinagar builds upon that transformation, extending the reach of railways beyond intra-Valley travel to connect directly with Jammu. It is a step that bridges the gap between pilgrimage, tourism and local mobility.
The timing of these trains is crucial. February is peak winter in Kashmir, a season that attracts tourists eager to experience snow but also one that tests the endurance of residents. With the highway frequently closed and flights unreliable, the railways emerge as the only dependable artery. The special trains scheduled to run not only accommodate the heavy rush of passengers but also provide predictability in a time of uncertainty. Their halts at Banihal, a critical junction, ensure that even those from South Kashmir can access the service conveniently. For families, students, and traders, this is more than a travel option; it is a lifeline.
Beyond immediate relief, the decision signals a broader infrastructural vision. Kashmir’s integration into India’s railway network has been a slow but steady process, marked by engineering marvels like the Chenab Bridge and the upcoming Udhampur–Banihal link. Each new service strengthens the argument that railways are not just about transport but about social and economic inclusion. By offering affordable fares, railways democratize mobility, breaking the monopoly of airlines and reducing the financial burden on ordinary people. For tourists, it means easier access to the Valley’s winter charm; for locals, it means dependable connectivity to markets, hospitals, and educational institutions.
This intervention also highlights the adaptability of Indian Railways in responding to regional needs. Operating special trains in response to weather challenges shows a sensitivity to ground realities. It is not merely about schedules and timetables but about acknowledging that connectivity in Kashmir is a matter of survival and dignity. The move is therefore rightly welcomed by both residents and visitors, who see in it a commitment to keeping Kashmir accessible despite nature’s hurdles.
In the long run, such decisions pave the way for a reimagined transport landscape in Kashmir. As railway infrastructure expands and services become more frequent, the Valley will no longer be at the mercy of highway closures or airline pricing.