Is the Inauguration of the Kashmir Rail Link a Testament to Governance Continuity?
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Synopsis
On June 6, Congress praised the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line as a symbol of governance continuity. Prime Minister Modi is set to inaugurate various projects, including the Vande Bharat train service. Congress leaders argue that the USBRL's history highlights the importance of sustained governance in developmental projects.
Key Takeaways
- USBRL exemplifies governance continuity in India.
- Prime Minister Modi's involvement highlights the project's importance.
- The railway line is crucial for Jammu and Kashmir's development.
- Historical milestones mark the project’s success.
- Collaborative efforts contributed to overcoming challenges.
New Delhi, June 6 (NationPress) The Congress party extended its greetings to the residents of Jammu and Kashmir and the Indian Railways, emphasizing that the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL) serves as a strong illustration of governance continuity. They noted that the 135 km rail link connecting Baramulla and Qazigund became operational by June 26, 2013.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the Vande Bharat train service from Katra to Srinagar and will also lay the groundwork for projects worth Rs 46,000 crore, including the Chenab Bridge, part of the USBRL.
Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary responsible for Communications, criticized the central government, indicating that the USBRL's achievements reflect a significant continuity that the current administration has overlooked.
Ramesh took to X to make pointed remarks about the Prime Minister, stating, “Governance entails great continuity, something Prime Minister Narendra Modi consistently undermines in his quest for personal acclaim, especially regarding the execution of highly challenging developmental initiatives.”
He highlighted the history of USBRL, noting it was first approved in March 1995 during P.V. Narasimha Rao's tenure as Prime Minister. It was designated a national project in March 2002 under Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
To substantiate his argument, he provided a timeline: “On April 13, 2005, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh inaugurated the 53 km rail link between Jammu and Udhampur. On October 11, 2008, he inaugurated the 66 km rail link from Anantnag to Mazhom, near Srinagar. On February 14, 2009, he inaugurated the 31 km rail link from Mazhom to Baramulla. On October 29, 2009, he opened the 18 km rail link from Anantnag to Qazigund. Finally, on June 26, 2013, he inaugurated the 11 km Qazigund to Banihal rail link.”
“This meant that by June 26, 2013, the 135 km rail link from Baramulla to Qazigund was functional,” he emphasized.
The inauguration of the 25 km rail link from Udhampur to Katra was delayed due to the election code of conduct for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, but it was eventually inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi on July 4, 2014.
Since 2014, the 111 km Katra-Banihal stretch has been completed, with significant contracts awarded earlier, including those for the remarkable Chenab Bridge, which were granted to the Konkan Railway Corporation, Afcons, VSK India, and Ultra Construction and Engineering Ltd of South Korea back in 2005, as Ramesh pointed out.
The Congress leader expressed his delight over the inauguration, stating, “The Indian National Congress congratulates the people of Jammu and Kashmir on this significant occasion. We also recognize the efforts of the Indian Railways and the public and private sector firms involved in the USBRL's execution over the last three decades.”
He concluded by affirming that the project's success exemplifies a collective determination and achievement in overcoming substantial challenges.
Point of View
The Congress party's emphasis on governance continuity through the USBRL project underscores the importance of long-term planning and execution in infrastructure development. It is crucial for any government to recognize the efforts of predecessors while striving to improve the lives of citizens.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line?
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL) is a significant railway project in Jammu and Kashmir, connecting the region with the rest of India. It spans 272 km and was initiated to enhance connectivity and promote economic development.
When did the USBRL become operational?
The USBRL became operational in phases, with the final section between Baramulla and Qazigund being completed by June 26, 2013.
Who inaugurated the USBRL?
Various Prime Ministers, including Dr. Manmohan Singh and Narendra Modi, have inaugurated different sections of the USBRL over the years.
What is the significance of the Chenab Bridge?
The Chenab Bridge is an iconic part of the USBRL project, recognized for its engineering marvel and its role in enhancing connectivity in the region.
How does the USBRL contribute to Jammu and Kashmir's development?
The USBRL significantly boosts connectivity, facilitating trade, tourism, and overall economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.
