Special train operated for ease of tourists

JAMMU: In view of slow vehicular movement on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway due to heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions, the Northern Railway's Jammu Division operated a special train from Srinagar to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, providing much-needed relief to passengers stranded in the Kashmir Valley. The special service was introduced under the directions of Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (Sr. DCM) Uchit Singhal to ensure safe, comfortable and timely travel for passengers affected by the highway disruptions. The train departed from Srinagar Railway Station at 5:10 pm, halted at Banihal, and is scheduled to reach Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 8:15 pm. More than 600 passengers, including a large number of tourists, availed themselves of the special train service. The initiative is expected to provide seamless and reliable connectivity to passengers, particularly those with onward rail connections from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Jammu Tawi railway stations. Railway officials said the Jammu Division has been operating special train services whenever required to ensure passenger convenience during emergencies and adverse weather conditions. Speaking on the occasion, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal said passenger safety and convenience remain the Railways' top priority. "In view of the slow road traffic and to ensure passengers reach their destinations on time, the Division took a prompt decision to operate this special train so that no passenger faces inconvenience," he said. He also advised passengers to check the latest train updates through the NTES App, IRCTC website, or the Railway Helpline (139) before commencing their journey.