Omar Abdullah Assures Security for Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Train, Hopes for Tourism Revival

By A Staff Reporter

Katra, Jammu & Kashmir: As the eagerly awaited Vande Bharat train service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar is set to commence operations from June 7, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has assured that adequate security arrangements are in place and there is no cause for panic.

Responding to concerns about safety in the wake of recent security challenges in the region, Abdullah said, “We have enough security, we will deal with it, no need to be panic. Trains have been running all over Kashmir properly and it is running fine.” He added that authorities are fully prepared to secure the newly added stretch of the route and “will take care of this area as well.”

The high-speed Vande Bharat service is expected to significantly boost connectivity and cut travel time between Jammu and Srinagar, serving both pilgrims and tourists. The rail link is part of the broader Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which aims to provide all-weather connectivity to the Kashmir Valley.

However, Abdullah acknowledged that this summer's tourism season has taken a hit due to prevailing tensions. “Unfortunately, this summer, the tourism is gone but we can't expect much,” he admitted, adding, “But we have hope from next year's summer.”