J&K Chief Minister says increase from 8 to 20 coaches will make travel easier for more passengers
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on the Vande Bharat flag-off event welcomed the launch of the expanded train service, saying the rail link between Jammu and Kashmir marks an important milestone in the region’s connectivity.
Thanking the Centre for the initiative, the Chief Minister said the new Vande Bharat service has now connected Jammu with Kashmir through the railway network, which will greatly improve travel convenience for passengers in the Union Territory.
Omar Abdullah thanks Centre
Speaking at the event, Omar Abdullah thanked Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and the Central Government for expanding the service.
He said, “On this occasion, I thank Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and the Central Government. Today, we have connected Jammu with Kashmir through the railways.”
According to him, the improved rail service is a major achievement for the region and will provide better transport access for the people.
Coach capacity raised from 8 to 20
Highlighting the increased capacity of the service, the Chief Minister said the Vande Bharat train, which earlier operated with 8 coaches, has now been expanded to 20 coaches.
He noted that the increase in the number of coaches would allow many more passengers to travel conveniently, especially on a route that is expected to witness high demand.
Calling it a “significant achievement,” he said the upgraded service would make the journey smoother and easier for travellers between Jammu and Kashmir.
Major boost to regional connectivity
The expanded Vande Bharat service is being seen as a major step toward improving rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, where infrastructure expansion has been a key priority.
The direct rail link is expected to benefit tourists, business travellers and local passengers by offering faster and more comfortable travel between the Jammu region and the Kashmir Valley.
New chapter in rail infrastructure
The flag-off of the enhanced Vande Bharat service marks a new phase in railway infrastructure development in the Union Territory, with the government focusing on increasing passenger capacity and strengthening connectivity in the region.
