All train services suspended in Kashmir for security reasons

Srinagar, May 28: All train services remained suspended for security reasons since yesterday afternoon in the Kashmir Valley, where clashes erupted after the killing of two militants, including Sabzar Bhat, successor of Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) commander Burhan Wani, in an encounter in Tral area of Pulwama district.

'We have suspended train service due to security reasons after receiving a directive from the Government, including police,' a senior Railway official told UNI. He said all trains running between Srinagar-Badgam-Sopore and Baramulla in North Kashmir remained suspended since yesterday afternoon . Similarly, train service from Badgam-Srinagar-Anantnag-Qazigund in South Kashmir to Banihal in Jammu region remained suspended.

Since there was apprehension of fresh violence, train services were suspended to avoid damage to railway property besides passengers, he said, adding that the train services will be resumed after receiving green signal from the authorities, particularly police. He said in the past, railways suffered massive damage to trains, railway stations and lighting system due to violence.

Last year after the killing of HM commander Burhan Wani in July last year in an encounter in South Kashmir and subsequent violence that left over 100 people dead in security force and police action, rail services remained suspended for about six months.