Srinagar, February 03: Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, addressed the media of J&K via a Video Press Conference today from Rail Bhawan New Delhi. During the interaction, the Minister provided an update on the UT specific provisions in the Union Budget 2025 related to railway infrastructure and development projects.
The minister informed that a budget allocation of Rs. 844 crore has been earmarked for Jammu & Kashmir, underscoring the government’s commitment to further enhancing railway infrastructure and connectivity in the region.
During the conference, Vaishnaw provided an update on key railway infrastructure and development projects in Jammu & Kashmir. He announced that all necessary testing processes for the much-awaited Katra-Srinagar railway line have been completed, and commercial operations will commence soon. He further highlighted the ongoing redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station, stating that once completed, direct railway connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar will be operational.
The minister emphasized the significant progress made in railway electrification, noting that since 2014, a total of 344 km of railway tracks have been electrified, making Jammu & Kashmir 100% electrified. Addressing a query regarding the need for passengers to change trains at Jammu Railway Station for onward travel to Srinagar, Vaishnaw explained that this requirement arises due to the varying terrain and climatic conditions. The redevelopment of Jammu Railway Station is being planned with these factors in mind to ensure seamless travel.
Providing financial and developmental insights, the Union Minister stated that since 2014, a total of 135 km of new railway tracks have been constructed in Jammu & Kashmir, improving regional connectivity and accessibility. He also informed that four major railway stations Budgam, Jammu Tawi, Katra, and Udhampur are being developed as ‘Amrit Stations’ at a total cost of Rs. 292.5 crore, enhancing passenger amenities and station infrastructure.
The budgetary allocation and development projects reaffirm the government’s dedication to modernizing railway infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir, fostering economic growth, and improving connectivity in the region, Vaishnaw further added.
