Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday thanked the Centre and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for establishing direct rail connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir, while strongly pitching for the creation of a dry (inland) port in the Union Territory to strengthen trade infrastructure.
Addressing a gathering at the flagging-off ceremony of the extended Vande Bharat Express from Jammu Railway Station, the Chief Minister said such a facility is essential to facilitate exports, streamline customs clearance, and significantly reduce logistics costs for local industries.
The train service was jointly flagged off by Vaishnaw, Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Jitendra Singh, and Omar Abdullah, in the presence of Members of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma, Sat Sharma, and Ghulam Ali Khatana, along with other dignitaries.
Officials confirmed that regular operations of the Srinagar–Jammu Vande Bharat Express will commence from May 2, 2026, further enhancing connectivity across the region.
Highlighting the broader economic implications, the Chief Minister noted that while the inland port proposal does not fall directly under the Railway Ministry, Vaishnaw could play a key role in advocating the matter at appropriate forums. “I will also take up this demand with the Centre,” he said, urging Dr Jitendra Singh and other MPs from Jammu and Kashmir to support the initiative.
Abdullah also recalled the success of the Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat service, inaugurated last year by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing it as a highly popular mode of transport.
Emphasising the role of rail connectivity in economic growth, he said freight train services to Kashmir are already contributing significantly by supporting the business community and strengthening the horticulture sector, which forms the backbone of the region’s economy.
