Officials conducted a thorough inspection of the Jammu-Katra railway stretch on Tuesday, finalizing preparations for the much-awaited train launch to the holy town of Katra, the base camp for the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.
Inspection Details
The inspection team, led by senior railway officials, examined the tracks, signaling systems, and station facilities along the 53-km stretch. The route, part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link project, includes several bridges and tunnels, with the longest tunnel being 11 km.
Safety Checks
Special attention was given to safety parameters, including track alignment, electrification, and communication systems. The team also reviewed emergency response protocols and conducted a trial run to assess operational efficiency.
Significance of the Route
The Jammu-Katra railway line is expected to boost pilgrimage tourism to the Vaishno Devi shrine, which attracts millions of devotees annually. Currently, pilgrims travel by road from Jammu to Katra, a journey that takes about two hours. The train service will reduce travel time and provide a more comfortable option.
Project Background
The project, costing over Rs 1,200 crore, was sanctioned in 2012 and faced multiple delays due to challenging terrain and geological hurdles. The final phase involved laying tracks in the Shivalik hills, requiring extensive tunneling and bridge construction.
Upcoming Launch
The train service is likely to be flagged off in the coming weeks by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to sources. The launch will mark a major milestone in connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India through rail.
Passengers will benefit from modern amenities at Katra station, including waiting halls, escalators, and parking facilities. The station has been designed to handle the expected rush during peak pilgrimage seasons.
Economic Impact
Local businesses anticipate a surge in tourist inflow, which will boost the regional economy. Hoteliers and transport operators in Katra have already begun upgrading facilities to cater to the expected increase in visitors.
The inspection concluded with a review meeting, where officials expressed satisfaction with the progress and directed final touches to be completed before the launch date.
