Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has asked Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to increase the frequency of Vande Bharat trains to the Valley.
He also sought an increase in the number of coaches in the Vande Bharat trains.
In a letter to Vaishnaw last week, Abdullah said the recent launch of the Vande Bharat Express between Katra and Srinagar has been widely welcomed and has generated immense public enthusiasm across Jammu and Kashmir.
“This landmark initiative has ushered in a new era of modern, comfortable, and time efficient travel for our citizens and tourists alike.” The chief minister, however, said that based on the feedback received from various stakeholders and commuters and his own experience after travelling on the train, “I would like to draw your kind attention to key issues that merit urgent consideration”.
Abdullah requested the railway minister to increase the number of coaches on the train.
“The current coach configuration on the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express is proving insufficient to cater to the growing passenger demand, especially during weekends, holidays, and the ongoing pilgrimage and tourism seasons.
“Augmenting the train’s capacity by adding one or more chair cars and executive class coaches will go a long way in addressing this surge,” he said.
The chief minister also added that given the overwhelming response and the strategic importance of the route, the frequency of the train should be increased.
“This would greatly benefit local commuters and tourists and help unlock the full potential of this vital corridor,” he added.
Calling for rescheduling of the train timings, the CM said the current departure and arrival timings were not optimal for the working population or for those intending to undertake day trips for official, educational, medical, or pilgrimage-related purposes.
“It is earnestly requested that the departure from Katra be scheduled in the early morning hours, and the return journey from Srinagar be timed for the late evening. This would facilitate same-day return travel and significantly enhance commuter convenience,” he said.
Abdullah also demanded the provision of onboard internet connectivity.
“In today’s digital age, uninterrupted internet access has become a key expectation of passengers, especially on premium trains such as the Vande Bharat Express.
“Provision of high-speed onboard Wi-Fi will greatly enhance the travel experience, allowing passengers to remain connected for work, communication, and entertainment during their journey, especially in view of poor mobile connectivity in the long tunnels,” he added.
