Rail service suspended in Kashmir for security reasons

Srinagar, Oct 9: Train service has again been suspended on Monday for security reasons in the Kashmir valley, where separatists had called for a general strike against braid chopping incidents. "We have suspended all train runs in the valley for security reasons following advisory from police," a senior railway official told UNI. He said all trains between Srinagar-Badgam in central Kashmir to Baramulla in north Kashmir have been suspended. Therefore, train will also not chug on Srinagar-Anantnag-Qazigund in south Kashmir to Banihal in Jammu region. This is the second time this time the train service has been suspended for security reasons in the valley. On October 6, train service was suspended after 1300 hrs following call for protests after Friday prayers against the braid chopping incidents. "We are acting on the advice of state administration and police to suspend or resume train service in the valley," he said. He said normally we witness major rush of passengers on Saturday and Monday when employees and businessmen are going or returning to their homes and work place. Rail service has become very popular in the Kashmir valley, which is being considered fast, cheap and safe against other mode of transport. However, for security reasons the service is being suspended putting to inconvenience passengers, particular labourers, daily wagers and farmers who cannot afford other mode of transport. Last year due to summer unrest the rail service remained suspended for about six months in the valley. UNI