The Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express has marked a significant achievement, transporting over one lakh passengers within the initial 22 days of its operation. This milestone highlights the growing popularity and importance of the high-speed train service connecting the Jammu region with the Kashmir Valley. The Northern Railway’s Jammu Division released a statement describing the train’s accomplishment as a “golden chapter” in the history of Indian Railways and Jammu and Kashmir.
The statement outlined that from May 2 to May 23, the Vande Bharat Express facilitated the safe and comfortable travel of 1,01,050 passengers. This indigenous semi-high-speed train has become a crucial transportation link for the region. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, the train is playing a vital role in reducing the geographical distance between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley, which has traditionally relied heavily on the often-unreliable National Highway-44.
The Union Railway Minister inaugurated the Vande Bharat Express on April 30, and regular operations commenced on May 1. The train quickly gained traction among travelers seeking a dependable and efficient mode of transportation. Historically, travel between Jammu and Srinagar has been prone to disruptions due to landslides and severe weather conditions affecting National Highway-44. According to railway officials, the Vande Bharat Express has maintained exceptional punctuality and 100 percent reliability over the past 22 days.
The reliable service offers a secure and seamless all-weather travel option, according to the Railways. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal, expressed immense pride in carrying over one lakh passengers within such a short period since the service’s inception. The official emphasized that this achievement reflects the commitment of Northern Railway to providing world-class infrastructure to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Singhal also mentioned the overwhelmingly positive feedback from passengers regarding the train’s comfort, safety, and hospitality. The train has seemingly mitigated the traditional fatigue associated with the Jammu-Srinagar route. The focus remains on upholding the highest standards of punctuality, cleanliness, and safety, according to Singhal. The Railways affirm that the achievement of the Vande Bharat Express fulfills the long-held aspiration of connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of the country through a dependable rail link.
In addition to improving passenger travel, the Railways stated that the service has also provided quicker access to markets across the country for the Valley’s apple and handicraft industries. The enhanced connectivity is expected to boost tourism in the region as well. The Vande Bharat Express represents a significant upgrade in transportation infrastructure for the region, promising economic and social benefits, alongside improved travel experiences for its passengers.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.