The Jammu Railway Division, carved out as a new entity within the Northern Railway zone, has successfully completed its first year of operations, marking the period with a series of significant achievements. Established on April 1, 2023, the division was created to enhance administrative efficiency and accelerate railway projects in the strategically important Jammu and Kashmir region.
A Year of Operational Excellence and Passenger Service
In its inaugural year, the division demonstrated robust operational performance. It managed the movement of a substantial volume of passengers and freight, directly serving the needs of the region. The division successfully handled over 1.5 lakh passengers and facilitated the transport of more than 2.5 lakh tonnes of freight. This logistical feat underscores the division's critical role in supporting both the local economy and the mobility of people.
Key to this success has been the division's focus on safety and infrastructure maintenance. Officials reported that over 1,000 safety drives and inspections were conducted across the network to ensure the safe passage of trains. Furthermore, significant attention was given to passenger amenities, with improvements made at several stations to enhance the travel experience for commuters and long-distance travelers alike.
Driving Critical Infrastructure Projects Forward
A primary mandate for the Jammu Railway Division is the oversight and progression of landmark railway projects in the Union Territory. The division has been instrumental in advancing the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a game-changer for regional connectivity. Progress on this challenging project, which involves constructing tunnels and bridges through difficult Himalayan terrain, has been a major focus area.
Beyond the USBRL, the division is actively involved in other infrastructure upgrades. This includes track doubling, electrification works, and the development of new station buildings. These projects are aimed at not only increasing the line capacity and efficiency but also at integrating the region more seamlessly with the rest of the country's railway grid, promoting economic growth and tourism.
Impact and Future Roadmap for Regional Connectivity
The establishment of the Jammu Railway Division has had a tangible impact on the region's railway ecosystem. By having a dedicated administrative unit based in Jammu, decision-making has been localized, leading to faster resolution of issues and more focused project management. This has directly contributed to the observed milestones in both operations and infrastructure development.
Looking ahead, the division's roadmap is aligned with the broader national goals for the railways. Priorities include:
- Accelerating the completion of pending segments of the USBRL project.
- Further enhancing passenger amenities and digital services at stations.
- Increasing freight loading capacity to boost local industries and agriculture.
- Continuing rigorous safety audits and modernizing signaling systems.
The first-year achievements of the Jammu Railway Division set a strong foundation for its future. By improving connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, the division is playing a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of the region, bringing it closer to the national mainstream and unlocking new opportunities for its residents.
