The Indian Railways is poised to complete a comprehensive upgradation of passenger coaches in the Kashmir Valley by August 31, signalling a major enhancement to regional rail services. This initiative, alongside the recent operationalisation of the Jammu-Srinagar rail line, is set to provide a vital new lifeline to Jammu and Kashmir. The strategic investment in modernising rail infrastructure underscores a commitment to fostering sustainable mobility and equitable development across the region.
The completion of the Jammu-Srinagar rail link, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2025 with the Chenab and Anji bridges, marks a historic milestone in connecting the Kashmir Valley with the broader Indian Railway network. Prior to this, the DEMU/MEMU rakes in the valley lacked direct access to workshops for periodic maintenance and upgradation. The new connectivity fundamentally changes this, enabling the movement of modern track maintenance machines into the valley and facilitating scientific upkeep, a significant improvement over previous manual methods.
This technological infusion into track maintenance is critical for enhancing safety, efficiency, and the overall quality of rail travel. Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, emphasised the shift towards modern track fittings, advanced track machines, ultrasound fracture detection, and road-cum-rail vehicles. The extensive use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in detecting defects will further revolutionise maintenance practices, improving working conditions for staff and ensuring a more resilient rail network capable of withstanding varied climatic conditions.
The upgradation in Kashmir is part of a larger national drive, with 78% of India’s tracks now upgraded to support speeds of 110 kmph or more by early 2025, a substantial increase from 39% in 2014. This progress is particularly significant given the rise in total track length to over 1 lakh km in 2025 from 79,342 km in 2014. Such widespread modernisation not only boosts operational efficiency but also contributes to a lower carbon footprint by promoting rail as a more energy-efficient mode of transport compared to road.
The enhanced rail connectivity and upgraded services are set to bring substantial socio-economic benefits to the Kashmir Valley. Improved mobility will facilitate trade, tourism, and access to essential services, fostering economic growth and creating new opportunities for local communities. By providing reliable and safe transportation, the Railways are contributing to a more equitable and inclusive development trajectory for the region, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of gender or background, can benefit from improved infrastructure. This holistic approach to rail development is a testament to India’s commitment to building sustainable and resilient regions.
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