Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday underscored the need to adopt new maintenance practices for the Jammu and Kashmir rail network, highlighting the unique challenges posed by the Himalayan terrain.
Addressing a gathering in Jammu after flagging off a 20-coach Vande Bharat train from Jammu to Srinagar, he said the Himalayas are young mountain ranges hence advanced technologies are required to maintain critical infrastructure, including the Chenab and Anji bridges and multiple tunnels.He said the focus is on stabilising maintenance practices for these structures to ensure long-term reliability.
Vaishnaw further said that J&K Police, the Home Ministry, and senior railway officials along with other stakeholders are working in coordination to ensure safety, security, and upkeep of the network.“Railways is now focusing on increasing the carrying capacity of trains operating between Jammu and Srinagar,” he said.
The railway minister also said that the key infrastructure initiatives, including installation of automatic signalling systems and construction of additional crossing stations, are being undertaken to enhance operational efficiency and ensure seamless train movement.
He outlined other technological and operational innovations which are being introduced.On redevelopment of Jammu Tawi railway station, he said that it is happening at a rapid pace with a modern design.
“A total of four railway stations are currently being constructed or upgraded across Jammu and Kashmir to provide improved passenger amenities and infrastructure,” Vaishnaw said.
On upcoming Amarnath Yatra, he assured that special arrangements will be made by the Railways to facilitate pilgrims, with a focus on safety and convenience.The railway minister emphasized that improved rail connectivity in J&K has significantly boosted freight operations and contributed to reducing the cost of essential commodities.
He said that efficient logistics have enabled the supply of essential goods, including products from Amul, and facilitated the transportation of over two crore kilograms of apples from Kashmir to Delhi. Vaishnaw added that transportation of perishable produce such as cherries is also expected to become easier, benefiting farmers and traders in the region.