Train to Kashmir likely to face delay of a few months: Farooq Abdullah

Jammu: National Conference President and former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah announced today that the much-anticipated train service to Kashmir from Jammu will experience a delay of a few more months.

Initially slated to commence on January 25, the service is now expected to begin operations in April 2025.

Speaking to reporters during a party function in Jammu, Dr. Abdullah stated, “I was preparing to travel to Srinagar onboard the train on January 25. However, I have been informed that the train will face a two-month delay due to some incomplete works. These works are being attended to, and they will start the train in April with the onset of the tourism season.” citeturn0search0

The Katra-Sangaldan section is a critical component of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, initiated in 1997 to connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India. In December 2024, the Railway Ministry announced the completion of the USBRL project, marking a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity to the region. citeturn0search0

Over the past month, railway authorities have conducted several trial runs on various sections, including the Katra-Srinagar track.

Additionally, the Commissioner of Railway Safety, Northern Circle, Dinesh Chand Deshwal, carried out statutory inspections, indicating progress toward operational readiness.