NEW DELHI, Jun 10: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi and discussed various issues related to the expansion and strengthening of rail services in the Union Territory.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister appreciated the quality of service, passenger comfort and punctuality of the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, describing it as a landmark initiative that has significantly improved connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country.
Highlighting the growing demand for rail travel, Omar Abdullah urged the Railway Minister to consider providing a stoppage for the Vande Bharat Express at Anantnag to facilitate easier travel for residents of South Kashmir and adjoining areas.
The Chief Minister also raised concerns regarding the scheduled closure of Srinagar International Airport from October 1 to October 15, 2026, for runway maintenance and resurfacing works.
He pointed out that the temporary closure coincides with one of the peak tourist seasons in Kashmir and could affect the movement of tourists, pilgrims and local residents.
In view of the anticipated disruption in air connectivity, Omar Abdullah requested the Railway Ministry to augment rail services to the Valley, particularly by increasing the frequency of Vande Bharat trains during the airport closure period and any associated flight restrictions.
He said enhanced railway services would provide a dependable alternative mode of transport, ensure smooth movement of passengers and help sustain tourism, pilgrimage activities and economic momentum during the period.
The Chief Minister noted that improved rail connectivity would particularly benefit tourists visiting the Valley during the festive season, including the Durga Puja holidays, while also addressing the travel needs of residents and pilgrims.
Omar Abdullah stressed that strengthening rail services during the airport shutdown would help mitigate inconvenience and ensure uninterrupted connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of the country.
It may be recalled that on April 30 this year, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and other dignitaries, flagged off the Vande Bharat Express service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar, establishing for the first time a direct rail link between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley.
The service has since emerged as a popular mode of transportation, significantly reducing travel time and enhancing passenger convenience across the region.
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