Took more than 50 year for extension of railway network in J&K: Minister

Union Minister Jitendra Singh, during the inauguration of a new railway division at Jammu, emphasised that there had been no railway extension in Jammu for the past 50 years. He stated that it is only under the current central government that the rail network has been expanded to reach Kashmir.

“The first train had arrived at the Jammu railway station, but for more than 50 years after that, there was no further progress. We had to wait over half a century before any extension of railways was undertaken here,” Singh remarked at the event held at the Jammu railway station.

He questioned why successive governments in those long years had not prioritised this vital sector in Jammu and Kashmir. He also pondered if certain elements had been opposed to connecting the Kashmir valley with the rest of India by railway, thereby fully integrating it into the national mainstream.

Singh highlighted the transformative railway infrastructure projects underway in the region, stressing how these projects were crucial for connecting Jammu and Kashmir to India’s broader economic and social progress.

Singh remarked, “The establishment of this railway division is not merely a logistical milestone but a reaffirmation of our commitment to integrate Jammu and Kashmir with India’s economic growth trajectory.” He recalled the challenges and delays that had plagued the region’s rail connectivity in the past but noted how recent years have witnessed unprecedented advancements.

A key highlight of Singh’s address was his reference to the world’s highest railway bridge, which stands taller than the Eiffel Tower. “What was once deemed impossible is now a reality. This bridge stands as a testament to India’s engineering prowess and commitment to progress,” he stated.

The new Jammu railway division is set to serve as a vital hub, enhancing both passenger and freight movement and providing a boost to the local economy.

Singh also underscored the broader expansion of rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, including the introduction of Vande Bharat trains, along with strategically located stoppages to meet growing public demand. He revealed plans to develop smaller stations, such as Sangaldan, into significant junctions to ensure seamless connectivity even in remote areas.

Reflecting on the project’s significance, the Minister appealed to the public to embrace this new era of connectivity, urging everyone to envision a brighter future for the next generation. He concluded with optimism, stating that the new railway division was not just an infrastructural achievement but a step toward fostering unity and development across the region.