Truly Historic Moment: Dr. Karan Singh on Kashmir Rail Connectivity

Lauds Modi Govt for Realizing Century-Old Railway Dream

Jammu, June 6: Former Sadr-e-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir and nonagenarian statesman, Dr. Karan Singh, has described the inauguration of the Katra-Srinagar train service as a truly historic moment in the region’s history.

In a formal statement issued today, the former Member of Parliament said, “Today marks a truly historic moment in the history of Jammu & Kashmir. The inauguration of the train from Katra to Srinagar is an astounding technical achievement, and everyone involved deserves our heartfelt gratitude.”

He further stated, “The idea of a railway line was first envisioned by Maharaja Pratap Singh several decades ago. In fact, three project reports were prepared by international engineers at the time, one of which closely resembles the present route. On March 1, 1892, Maharaja Pratap Singh even laid the foundation stone of a railway project to link Jammu & Kashmir. However, the technology and finances required for such a massive undertaking were not available back then.”

Dr. Karan Singh said, “It was only during the tenures of Prime Ministers Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee and later Shrimati Indira Gandhi that the project began to take shape. I extend my congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for seeing the project through to completion and inaugurating it today.”

“I am confident that this train service will usher in a new era of growth in tourism, trade, and commerce in both the Valley and Jammu. I look forward to taking this train journey myself soon to witness the marvelous bridges and tunnels that have been constructed,” he concluded.