In a momentous event marked by enthusiasm and celebration, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurated the regular run of the Vande Bharat Express, introducing stoppages at Udhampur and Kathua. These stations hold particular significance as they fall within Dr Jitendra Singh’s Lok Sabha constituency.
Characterising it as a historic government decision, Dr Jitendra Singh attributed the success to the special attention and priority accorded by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to the rapid development of the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) region.
Dr Jitendra Singh commenced the maiden stoppage of the train at Udhampur Station and journeyed on it to reach Kathua Railway Station, the train’s first scheduled stop. Speaking at the event, he highlighted that the inclusion of Kathua station as a stoppage fulfilled a long-standing demand of the local populace and commuters. Notably, this accomplishment was achieved within a swift one-and-a-half-month period without compromising the mandated eight-hour journey time of the Vande Bharat Train.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, Dr Jitendra Singh acknowledged the naming of Udhampur Railway Station as Martyr Captain Tushar Mahajan Railway Station, a unique tribute to a martyred soldier. He clarified a rectification in an earlier notification, ensuring that the station is officially recognised as Martyr
Captain Tushar Mahajan, hailing from Udhampur’s Adarsh Colony, served in the 9 Para (Special Forces of the Indian Army). In February, he sacrificed his life defending the nation during a terrorist attack on the Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute building in the Pulwama area of South Kashmir.
Dr Jitendra Singh underscored the uniqueness of the railway route to J&K, with two Vande Bharat Trains in operation, emphasising the strategic significance of Udhampur as a major military center in North India. Anticipating increased importance in the coming decade, especially with the forthcoming connection of the Kashmir Valley to the rest of the country via train, he envisions Udhampur and Kathua Railway Stations becoming major junctions.
Sharing the revised schedule of the two Vande Bharat Trains with stoppages at Udhampur and Kathua, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted enhanced traveller comfort. The adjusted timings enable passengers from Kathua and Udhampur to have lunch in Delhi, while those travelling from Delhi can enjoy dinner at their next destination. The revamped departure and arrival timings align with the evolving needs of commuters, fostering a seamless and efficient rail travel experience for residents and visitors alike.
