JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for transforming long-cherished dreams of connecting Kashmir with Kanyakumari into reality through the expansion of the Jammu Railway Division, setting new milestones in infrastructure growth across Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a gathering at Jammu Railway Station during PM Modi’s virtual inauguration of the new Jammu Railway Division, the LG underscored the division’s strategic importance. “This division will spur economic growth, create jobs, advance infrastructure, and establish new tourism circuits,” he stated.
The LG highlighted the landmark progress in the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), which will integrate Kashmir into the national railway network, promoting trade, tourism, and employment opportunities.
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He announced that the Prime Minister would soon inaugurate the Z-Morh Tunnel, another significant infrastructure project, further boosting connectivity and development.
“Under PM Modi’s leadership, J&K has seen unprecedented growth in infrastructure. The focus on connectivity, sustainability, and innovation is paving the way for a self-reliant and prosperous J&K, contributing to the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047,’” LG Sinha said.
Discussing upcoming railway projects, he revealed surveys and plans for new lines including Anantnag-Bijbehara-Pahalgam, Awantipora-Shopian, Baramulla-Uri, Jammu-Poonch, and Pathankot-Leh. These projects aim to unlock J&K’s untapped potential by linking key towns and enhancing local economies.
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In light of the region’s rapid industrial growth, particularly in Jammu, Samba, and Kathua, the LG urged Indian Railways to explore private freight terminals to support industrial logistics and improve transportation for goods.
The LG also expressed gratitude to stakeholders who championed the Jammu Railway Division, particularly late BJP leader Devender Singh Rana, whose relentless efforts helped realize this initiative.
“Enhanced connectivity is transforming J&K, stimulating trade, supporting industrialization, and providing better access to markets, ensuring socio-economic upliftment,” he added.
Indian Railways, the LG affirmed, remains committed to fostering development and integration in the region, laying the foundation for a brighter and unified future for Jammu and Kashmir.