Expansion of Rail Network in Jammu and Kashmir Likely to Extend to the LOC

Srinagar: With significant ground improvements underway in Jammu and Kashmir, the Northern Railway is poised to expand the railway line from Baramulla to the border town of Uri, thus connecting it with the Line of Control (LOC) - a new railway link.

 

An official from the railway disclosed that the concerned agency has received clearance for realignment for the proposed 50-kilometer extension from Baramulla to Uri for the train link. Currently, the train runs from northern Kashmir's Banihal to Baramulla, covering a distance of 135.5 kilometers.

 

The official explained that once the clearance report (realignment approval) is granted, the aerial, drone, and ground surveys for the 50-kilometer-long Baramulla-Uri rail link will commence. They mentioned that it wouldn't take much time to initiate the aerial and ground surveys. According to the alignment report, the proposal includes the construction of over half a dozen railway stations along the 50-kilometer-long railway track.

 

The new railway line extending from Baramulla to Uri will pass through prominent locations like Baramulla, Sopore, Gantmulla, Boniyar, Limber, Naugram, Lagama, and Uri city. The expansion of the train link to the border town of Uri is expected to generate numerous job opportunities and benefit the local populace.

 

Union Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnav had announced during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir earlier this year in March that the railway network in Kashmir would be extended up to the Chinese border. The expansion of the railway link to the Uri sector will enhance connectivity for the local population. It will also ease travel for passengers along the Banihal, Srinagar, and Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, making their journeys more convenient.

 

Additionally, this development will assist businesses and trade, as authorities have opened up border areas, including Uri, for tourists after ground improvements. Improved connectivity will make it easier for tourists to reach Uri, and they can plan trips to other parts of the valley from there.

 

Mohammad Amin, President of the Dry Fruit Association in Uri, stated that with the extension of the train link to Uri, their goods will reach Delhi within 36-48 hours instead of the current 10 days. He said, "This will be very beneficial for businesses, especially fruit producers."

 

The expansion of the train link to Uri will also aid the agility of deployed soldiers in border areas and expedite transportation. Aerial and ground surveys are expected to commence soon.

Image Credit PTI