CS reviews launching of additional train services in Kashmir

SRINAGAR, JUNE 23: Chief Secretary, B.B.Vyas on Friday undertook an extensive review of launching additional train services and halt stations along the Baramulla-Banihal railway track ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr.

                The meeting, which was held in the office of Divisional Commissioner Kashmir was attended by top officials of the Civil and Police administration, including Director General of Police, Dr S.P Vaid, Principal Secretary Home, R K Goyal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Rohit Kansal, Commissioner Secretary Finance, Navin K Choudhary,  Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Baseer Ahmad Khan, Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, Muneer Ahmad Khan, Inspector General of Police, CID, AG Mir, Inspector General of Police (Traffic), Jagjit Kumar, Inspector General of Police (Railways),  Rajesh Kumar, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Dr Farooq A Lone, among other officials from SMC, Revenue, Agriculture and Horticulture Departments.

The Chief Secretary also reviewed the Eid-ul-Fitr arrangements in various districts across Kashmir Valley with the concerned Deputy Commissioner through video-conferencing. He called upon the officers to work with zeal and dedication in reaching out to the public and addressing their grievances. He stressed upon the officers to be accessible to the common citizens and be pro-active in ensuring time bound resolution of their problems.  

Pertinently, on the request of the Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti, the Ministry of Railways has opened more halt points on the Baramulla-Banihal railway stretch to facilitate the local people. The new halt points have been opened at Razwan (Sanoor Kalipora) between Budgam and Mazhome railway stations, Naidgam between Budgam and Mazhome railway stations, Ratnipora (Pulwama) between Kakapora and Awantipore stations and Sangdan (Kulgam) between Qazigund and Sadura railway stations.

It may be recalled that the people of these areas had represented with the Chief Minister for setting up of these halt points for their facilitation. Accordingly, she took up the issue with Railway Minister, Suresh Prabhu through various communications and also personally met him in New Delhi on November 26, 2016 to press for opening up these halt points for the convenience of passengers, students and employees. Baramulla-Banihal rail link has emerged as an alternative and convenient mode of transportation among the majority of commuters, and it has cut the commuting time by a considerable measure.