Train services resume in Kashmir

Srinagar, Oct 10: Train services resumed on Tuesday morning after remaining suspended for security reasons in the Kashmir valley, where separatists had called for a general strike against braid chopping incidents. "We have resumed all train runs in the valley," a senior railway official told UNI. He said all train runs between Srinagar-Badgam in central Kashmir to Baramulla in north Kashmir have been resumed. Therefore, train will also chug on Srinagar-Anantnag-Qazigund in south Kashmir to Banihal in Jammu region. This was the second time that the train service was suspended for security reasons in the valley this month. 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. '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. Today, we expect extra ordinary rush of passengers because of suspension of rail service,' he added. Rail service, which is being considered fast, cheap and safe against other mode of transport has become very popular in the Kashmir valley. 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