Proposed launch of Kashmir rail service postponed

Banihal, Feb 16: The much-anticipated launch of the Vande Bharat Express train service between Katra and Srinagar has been postponed, sources told Greater Kashmir..

Scheduled for February 17, the launch has been pushed back to either February 21 or 22, according to sources in the Northern Railways.

Although no official order had been issued for the commencement of the rail service on February 17, Northern Railway authorities had received a verbal directive to prepare for the launch and restrict employee leaves.

However, a new verbal order has deferred the launch, with sources citing the government formation and swearing-in ceremony in Delhi as the reason behind the delay.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the Vande Bharat Express train service on the revised date.

When contacted, Chief Area Manager Budgam (CAM) Kashmir railway Saqib Yusuf said no official order has been issued to commence the service on February 17 or February 21/22. 

He said that these reports have not been confirmed through any official announcements.