The direct train service between Delhi and Srinagar remains unavailable, reportedly due to security concerns. Responding to this, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that such a decision undermines the primary objective of the rail link project.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Abdullah acknowledged the importance of ensuring passenger safety on trains heading to the Valley. However, he suggested conducting security checks at Katra or Jammu instead of forcing passengers to switch trains.
“To avoid any misunderstanding, while we recognize the need to secure both the train and its passengers, requiring passengers to change trains defeats the purpose of this rail line and renders the massive investment pointless. Conduct security checks at Katra or Jammu, but we cannot support the need for passengers to change trains,” Abdullah emphasized. He also noted that no official proposal has been made yet, and the government would share its inputs when required.
No Direct Train Between Delhi and Srinagar
According to a senior railway official, the possibility of a direct train between Delhi and Srinagar remains slim due to mandatory security checks. These checks, which may take up to an hour, will likely occur at Katra or Jammu.
This arrangement means passengers traveling to or from Srinagar will have to switch trains at Katra or Jammu to continue their journey to other parts of the country, including Delhi. The rail project, overseen by Northern Railway’s Jammu Division, remains under the administrative control of the Union Territory.