Train btw Katra-Srinagar likely to begin operations by April 19-20
Jammu: In a scathing remark on Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha described Pakistan as a “failed state”, stating that people across the border are now witnessing the wide developmental gap between the two sides of the Line of Control.
In an exclusive conversation with Network18, LG Sinha said, “Pakistan is grappling with internal turmoil—be it the Baloch issue or economic instability. Even its scholars and intellectuals are now writing about the sorry state of affairs in their country. Meanwhile, under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, Jammu and Kashmir is seeing roads, electricity, development, and peace.”
Referring to sentiments within PoJK, he added, “Distrust among the people in PoJK has reached its peak. They are seeing the stark difference—on one side, there’s peace and infrastructure, and on the other, long queues for basic necessities like flour.”
Responding to questions about India’s possible move on reclaiming PoJK—as has been reiterated by senior leaders including the Defence and Home Ministers—Sinha diplomatically said that such decisions rest solely with the Government of India.
“I am fully aware of my role and jurisdiction. Matters of national strategy are to be handled by the Central Government,” he stated.
During the conversation, LG Sinha also confirmed that India’s first Vande Bharat train between Katra and Srinagar is likely to begin operations by the third week of April, with tentative dates around April 19–20.
“The train is now ready, and it will mark a new era in connectivity and development for Jammu & Kashmir,” said Sinha.
The Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat is specially designed for the region’s climate, capable of operating even in -20°C temperatures, and is different from Vande Bharat trains running in other parts of the country.
Highlighting the broader development in the Union Territory, LG Sinha said that over 4,000 new hotels have been built in the last four years, reflecting a massive surge in tourism and investor confidence.
He revealed that under the ₹28,000 crore industrial package sanctioned post-2020, Jammu and Kashmir has already utilized a significant portion and has requested the Centre for an extension.
“Investment worth ₹10,000 crore is already on the ground, and projects worth ₹20,000 crore are in active implementation. In the next year, these will be completed,” Sinha stated.
He added that 46 new industrial areas are under development and praised the progress in education, highlighting that the University of Jammu has become the first in the region to receive an NAAC A++ rating.
