ICC Chairman meets LG Sinha; advocates Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat train service

Jammu: Rahul Sahai, Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Jammu, has urged Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to advocate for the introduction of the Vande Bharat Express train service between Jammu and Srinagar, instead of its current route from Katra. He also called for the extension of the New Central Sector Scheme (NCSS) industrial package for Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the inclusion of at least 40% local employment, according to a statement issued to Ziraat Times.

Meeting the LG at the Raj Bhawan in Jammu, Sahai highlighted the critical role of these initiatives in advancing the Union Territory’s economic growth. He requested the LG to escalate the NCSS package extension proposal to the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Home Minister, emphasizing its significance in sustaining industrial progress and generating employment in the region.

Proposal for Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Service

In a detailed memorandum submitted to the LG, Sahai outlined the strategic advantages of initiating the Vande Bharat Express from Jammu instead of Katra:

Boost to Trade and Economic Activity: Enhanced connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar would streamline the transportation of goods to the Kashmir Valley, fostering economic growth and trade.

Improved Passenger Convenience: Starting the service from Jammu would cater to a larger demographic, including traders, tourists, and daily commuters, thereby increasing ridership.

Integrated Regional Development: Strengthening connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar would bridge regional disparities and reinforce Jammu’s role as an economic hub in the UT.

Call for Industrial Package extension

Expressing concern over the impending conclusion of the NCSS industrial package, Sahai emphasized its critical role in supporting industrial growth, economic development, and job creation in Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed the importance of extending the scheme with provisions for local employment, ensuring that the region’s industrial momentum remains intact.

“I earnestly request Hon’ble LG Shri Manoj Sinha Ji to take this matter to the highest levels in Delhi and advocate for the extension of the industrial package with the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Home Minister,” Sahai stated.