SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday virtually inaugurated the new Jammu Railway Division, calling it a historic milestone in developing Jammu and Kashmir’s connectivity and infrastructure.
Addressing the nation during the ceremony, PM Modi, congratulated the people of Jammu and Kashmir, saying, “Integration of JK into the national railway network is a monumental step towards transforming Indian Railways into a global leader in efficiency, speed, and passenger experience.”
He highlighted the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project as a landmark achievement that demonstrates India’s engineering excellence. “India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge, and the iconic arch bridge over the Chenab River—the world’s highest railway bridge—are marvels that are making waves globally,” he said.
The Prime Minister emphasised that the new Jammu Railway Division would not only benefit the people of Jammu and Kashmir but also extend its advantages to Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Ladakh. PM Modi described the inauguration as a symbol of India’s collective progress under the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” fulfilling the dream of Vikshit Bharat (Developed India).
“To achieve Vikshit Bharat, it is essential to develop Indian Railways,” he said, adding that the past decade has witnessed transformational changes in railway infrastructure modernisation, enhanced connectivity, and improved passenger facilities.
He noted that over 30,000 kilometres of new railway tracks have been laid in the last 10 years, with nearly 100% electrification achieved, compared to just 35% in 2014. He also highlighted the elimination of all manual crossings on broad-gauge tracks.
“Today is a significant day for new-age connectivity. It shows that the entire nation is moving forward together,” PM Modi remarked.
The Prime Minister stressed that new railway divisions, terminals, and modernised stations are creating unprecedented opportunities for trade, business, and employment.
“The development of railways is generating lakhs of job opportunities. In the last 10 years, lakhs of youth have been employed in the railways, and initiatives like Gati Shakti University will further enhance the workforce’s skillset,” he said.
Referring to advancements in high-speed train services, PM Modi noted that more than 50 Vande Bharat trains are now operational, connecting distant regions in shorter times and setting benchmarks for modern Indian trains. “The time is not far when bullet trains will traverse the country, making railway journeys memorable,” he added.
The Prime Minister also praised India’s expanding metro network, which has grown from just five cities in 2005 to 21 cities today, with over 1,000 kilometres of operational tracks.
Highlighting the importance of indigenous development, PM Modi said, “Under the ‘Made in India’ initiative, railway stations are being modernised, and high-speed train corridors are being developed. This will ensure India leads from the front in connectivity and infrastructure.”
He reiterated the government’s commitment to making Indian Railways the backbone of a developed and self-reliant India. “This is not just about connectivity but also about fulfilling aspirations and creating opportunities for every citizen,” he concluded. (KNO)
