Jammu, Apr 30: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday expressed gratitude to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and the Central Government for connecting Jammu with Kashmir through rail connectivity, while also urging the establishment of a dry (inland) port for Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the proposed dry port is essential for improving export facilities and customs clearance processes, which would ultimately help in reducing logistics costs in the region.
The Chief Minister made these remarks while addressing a gathering during the event marking the extended Srinagar-Jammu Vande Bharat Express, which was flagged off from Jammu Railway Station.
The extended train service was inaugurated by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the presence of Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office Dr Jitendra Singh and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Members of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma, Sat Sharma, and Ghulam Ali Khatana were also present on the occasion along with other dignitaries.
The regular service of the extended Srinagar-Jammu Vande Bharat Express is scheduled to begin from May 2, 2026.
CM Omar Abdullah said that although the issue of a dry port does not fall directly under the Railway Ministry, the Union Minister could play a key role in taking up the matter with the concerned authorities. He also stated that he would personally raise the demand with the Centre.
He further urged Dr Jitendra Singh and Members of Parliament from Jammu and Kashmir to actively support the proposal.
The Chief Minister noted that the Srinagar-Katra Vande Bharat Express, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year, has become a highly popular mode of transport.
He also highlighted that freight train services to Kashmir are playing an important role in strengthening the region’s economy, particularly benefiting the business community and the horticulture sector. (Agency)
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