Special train launched for passengers stranded in Kashmir

A special train was launched from Katra to New Delhi to assist the stranded passengers and accommodate extra rush. Thousands of tourists are leaving Kashmir after the gruesome terror attack, with authorities making all efforts for their safe return to their respective home states.

The tickets for the train were made available over the counter from Katra, Udhampur and Jammu stations. The train (04612) will depart from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi (SMVD) Katra and take a halt at Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Station Udhampur and then at Jammu before moving further.

“This special train will play a crucial role in clearing the additional passenger load and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey to New Delhi. The train shall reach New Delhi at 9.30 am. The passengers stranded at Kashmir and Jammu can use this special train,” an official spokesperson said.

Also, the landslide-hit Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was reopened for one-way traffic on Wednesday after remaining closed for three days. The highway was blocked by multiple landslides triggered by heavy rains and cloudbursts early on Sunday.

“The (Jammu-Srinagar) national highway at Ramban is made functional on one-way basis,” a government spokesperson said. “The administration remains committed to the well-being of all tourists and urges everyone to cooperate and follow the necessary guidelines,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he has directed the administration to facilitate traffic between Srinagar and Jammu allowing tourist vehicles to leave. “This will have to be done in a controlled and organised way because the road is still unstable in places and we are also working hard to clear all the stranded vehicles. We will not be able to permit completely free movement of vehicles at the moment and we hope that everyone will cooperate with us,” he added.