Katra–Srinagar rail link hailed as game-changer for Kashmir’s economy, connectivity
Srinagar, Jun 6: The inauguration of the direct Katra-Srinagar rail link has evoked widespread praise across Jammu and Kashmir, with key stakeholders describing it as a “historic and transformative moment” for the region’s connectivity and economy.
Fruit Growers Call Rail Link a Lifeline for Horticulture
The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, the apex body representing growers from all major fruit belts including Sopore, Shopian, Pulwama, and Anantnag, termed the launch of the rail link as a long-cherished dream fulfilled. They hailed the development as a potential economic lifeline, especially during the off-season months, by offering safe, all-weather, and cost-effective transport for both goods and people. “This is not just a railway—it’s a bridge to opportunity. The direct train will reduce congestion, cut freight costs, and make Kashmir more accessible to domestic tourists,” the union said in a statement.
Extending congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the union urged for a separate goods train and a direct link from Delhi to the Valley to further boost trade and horticulture logistics. They emphasised that full connectivity without the need to change trains at Katra would be vital for seamless travel and commerce.
PHDCCI Hails Rail Project as a Catalyst for Business
The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) Kashmir also lauded the initiative, calling it a milestone in regional development. A.P. Vicky Shaw, Chairman of PHDCCI Kashmir, said the Vande Bharat service would not only ease the movement of goods and tourists but also generate employment, strengthen supply chains, and uplift local livelihoods.
“This landmark initiative is a game-changer for Jammu & Kashmir, paving the way for accelerated economic growth, employment generation, and socio-economic empowerment,” Shaw said, adding that it would integrate the region more closely with India’s broader economic landscape.
Relief for Common Citizens: JKCSF
Civil society leaders, including Qayoom Wani of the Jammu & Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF), described the development as a "game-changer," especially for students, patients, and working-class travellers who were previously at the mercy of expensive airfares or weather-affected road travel. He urged the central government to reconsider the mandatory train interchange at Katra, calling it a roadblock to the full benefits of seamless connectivity.
“This rail service ends the long-standing exploitation by airlines and will make travel more affordable for the common man,” Wani said, stressing that eliminating the Katra transfer would ensure the true purpose of the initiative is realised.
Train to Srinagar to Boost Pilgrimage, Business in Katra: CTTIK
The Chamber of Tourism, Trade and Industry Katra (CTTIK) highlighted the spiritual and commercial significance of the rail link, especially for Vaishno Devi pilgrims. CTTIK President Raj Kumar Padha said that the new service, along with engineering marvels like the Chenab arch bridge and Anji cable-stayed bridge, would become major tourist draws in themselves, further energising the local economy.
He emphasised that the improved rail connectivity would enable seamless transport for both passengers and goods, opening new avenues for trade, tourism, and hospitality across J&K, particularly benefiting Katra and surrounding areas.
Across sectors—horticulture, trade, tourism, and civil society—the sentiment is united: Kashmir’s rail link is not just a transport corridor, but a step toward economic transformation, national integration, and year-round accessibility for the people of the Valley.
