Trains to Kashmir to start soon: Rail Minister Ashwini

Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced that the much awaited train service between Jammu and Kashmir valley will start soon.

"The outstanding project to build a new railway route is a testament to engineering excellence and determination, overcoming significant geographical and climatic challenges," he added.

Speaking to media during the inspection of new coaches of Amrit Bharat train and other projects at Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, the minister said this was a national dream, a new railway line to Jammu and Kashmir, which is a huge challenge. Out of 111 km railway line, 97 km is tunnel and 6 km is bridge.

Vaishnaw added that this is a big project and the dream has come true. Work is completed and CRS inspection is done. Once the report is received "we will start the train services."

The minister said a new Vande Bharat train has also been designed for this purpose.

"Since temperatures can drop to minus 10 or minus 20 degrees, factors like electrical lines, electronics, and the train's connection with the wheels are affected. Keeping these challenges in mind, the new Vande Bharat has been designed. All preparations have been completed and this dream of India will soon become a reality," he said.

Notably a speed trial was conducted on Katra-Banihal section of Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramula Rail Link (USBRL) during CRS inspection on January 8 and 9.

Katra-Banihal section is a critical part of USBRL project, connecting Jammu region with Kashmir Valley. Famous for its tough terrain and engineering marvels, the section has Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world and several state of art tunnels and latest safety features.