National Conference (NC) president Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday welcomed the launch of the Vande Bharat Express to Kashmir, calling it a significant move toward enhancing both connectivity and emotional integration with the rest of the country.
Dr. Abdullah, who travelled on the train during its journey, said that the new rail link will not only improve access to the Kashmir Valley but will also boost tourism and strengthen national unity.“This train will help connect Kashmir with the rest of the country throughout the year, even when road links are disrupted by weather. It’s not just a transport service—Yeh dilon ki doori ko khatm karegi (it’s a bridge of hearts) ,” he said.
While expressing gratitude to all those who made the project possible, he also acknowledged the contributions of former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Dr. Manmohan Singh in promoting development and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Abdullah further noted that the Vande Bharat train is expected to attract tourists from across India, as they will now be able to reach Kashmir directly and comfortably.
He remarked that while the train is a symbolic and practical step toward reducing the emotional distance, or ‘Dil ki Duri’, between Kashmir and the rest of India, more comprehensive efforts are still needed to achieve true harmony. “This is a beginning. The real challenge lies in winning hearts and ensuring lasting peace,” he added.
⁸The Vande Bharat Express to Kashmir is being seen as a major infrastructural milestone, especially as it enhances all-weather connectivity to the Valley. It is expected to play a key role in regional development and national integration.National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday termed the newly inaugurated train service to Kashmir as a transformative step for the region, calling it a “lifeline” for both the common people and the tourism sector.
Expressing his joy while boarding the Vande Bharat train to Katra, Abdullah said, “This development is a major breakthrough for Kashmir. It will not only provide comfort to travellers but also ease the burden caused by frequent road closures and skyrocketing airfares.”
Farooq further said that the railway link would enhance the valley’s economic potential, particularly in the horticulture sector. “Quick access to national markets will allow timely transportation of Kashmiri fruits, which was often a challenge,” he added.
Abdullah said that apart from benefiting residents, the railway line would significantly improve the experience for tourists visiting the region, offering them safer and more affordable travel options.
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