Is it a Great Day? PM Modi Celebrates the First Freight Train to Kashmir Valley
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Synopsis
On August 9, in a momentous occasion for Kashmir, PM Modi praised the inaugural freight train's arrival, likening it to a 'great day' for commerce and regional development. This significant event is expected to transform trade dynamics and enhance connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for economic growth and prosperity.
Key Takeaways
- The first freight train to Kashmir is a historic milestone.
- It will significantly reduce transportation costs for locals.
- The USBRL project covers multiple districts, enhancing connectivity.
- This development is expected to boost the local economy.
- Reliable transportation will facilitate year-round movement of goods.
New Delhi, Aug 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday celebrated the arrival of the first freight train to the Kashmir valley.
Describing it as a “great day”, PM Modi emphasized that this milestone is poised to enhance “progress and prosperity” in the area.
In a post on the social media platform X, he remarked, “Great day for commerce and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir!”
He further stated, “It will enhance both progress and prosperity.”
Marking a significant achievement in the transportation of goods, the inaugural freight train arrived at Anantnag town in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.
This event also signifies the operational launch of the Banihal-Sangaldan-Reasi-Katra segment of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw shared on X, “The first freight train reached the newly commissioned Anantnag Goods Shed in the Kashmir Valley from Punjab, marking a significant milestone in connecting the Kashmir region to the national freight network.”
He added, “Transportation by railway network will reduce cost for our citizens living in the Kashmir valley.”
The USBRL project spans several districts, including Udhampur, Reasi, Ramban, Srinagar, Anantnag, Pulwama, Budgam, and Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir.
The local economy is expected to receive a substantial boost as transportation costs for goods will significantly decrease, while also alleviating uncertainties associated with the Srinagar-Jammu highway, which often experiences closures due to landslides, shooting stones, and earth caving-in incidents.
The arrival of the goods train will ensure continuous movement of goods into the Kashmir Valley and aid in transporting the region’s vast horticultural produce, including apples.
The construction of the USBRL has been hailed as an engineering marvel and a testament to human resilience, navigating one of the world’s most challenging mountain terrains.
The Prime Minister is set to virtually inaugurate the Vande Bharat Express train between Amritsar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra on August 10.
Point of View
I firmly believe that this milestone not only symbolizes progress but also reinforces the commitment to uplift the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The operational freight train is a testament to national integration and economic development, which must be supported and promoted for the benefit of all citizens.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the first freight train to Kashmir?
The first freight train to Kashmir signifies a major advancement in transportation, enhancing trade and connectivity for the region, and is expected to boost the local economy significantly.
How will this freight train impact the local economy?
The freight train will lower transportation costs for goods, ensuring year-round access to markets and facilitating the export of Kashmiri horticultural products.
What is the USBRL project?
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project aims to connect the Kashmir Valley to the national railway network, covering several districts, enhancing connectivity, and supporting economic growth.
When will the Vande Bharat Express be inaugurated?
The Vande Bharat Express train between Amritsar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra is set to be inaugurated virtually by PM Modi on August 10.
What challenges does the Kashmir valley face in transportation?
The Kashmir valley often faces transportation challenges due to the vulnerability of the Srinagar-Jammu highway to landslides and other natural obstacles, making rail connectivity crucial.
