Tourists visiting J&K through Vande Bharat blessing for tourism, trade: Farooq Abdullah

Srinagar, Jun 11: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah returned to Srinagar on Wednesday aboard the newly launched Vande Bharat Express from Katra, after paying obeisance at the revered Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.

Speaking to reporters at Srinagar Railway Station, Dr. Farooq Abdullah described his journey as “very pleasant,” adding with a smile, “Bohut acha safar raha.”

With a smile on his face and pointing towards the arriving visitors, Farooq said, “You can see for yourself tourists are coming. This train is a great blessing. It will not only boost tourism but also enhance business opportunities for our people.”

He added, “Our fruit produce can now reach other parts of India faster, and people from Kashmir can travel with ease anywhere across the country. This is a dream I had long cherished, and today, I feel it has been fulfilled in my lifetime.”

Dr. Farooq said that he prayed for everyone at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. “We must always remember the divine power that blesses us and be grateful to those who helped make this train a reality.” (JKNS)