Trains to Kashmir may begin rolling next month

The Railways has modified AC sleeper trains and a Vande Bharat train for the Jammu-Kashmir route to handle harsh weather. Security checks akin to airports will be implemented. Trial runs on the Katra-Reasi section have been successful, indicating readiness. PM Modi might inaugurate both the train service and the Z Morh tunnel soon.

NEW DELHI: The Railways has tweaked five AC sleeper trains and one Vande Bharat with chair cars for their deployment on Jammu-Kashmir route to cope with harsh weather conditions, ahead of launch of train operations to Kashmir valley from the rest of the country. For safety of passengers and trains, Railways will have an airport-type security check for passengers boarding these trains. Sources said the preparation is in full swing considering the Commissioner of Railway Safety is scheduled to carry out final inspection of the Katra-Reasi section of Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail line on Jan 5, boosting hope for commercial operation of trains to the Valley from next month.

Sources said that along with the inauguration of a train from the Valley, PM Modi may also inaugurate the Z Morh tunnel in Kashmir, which has been completed. Meanwhile, trial run of a cargo-loaded train on Katra-Reasi section was conducted successfully on Wednesday. Sources said the train runs are being conducted to assess preparedness.

"We are hopeful of operations starting this month. With this, rail connectivity between Kashmir and Kanyakumari will be complete," said a source. The final call on the inauguration will be taken by PM.

While there has been speculation that operations may start from Jan 26, there is buzz around Jan 12, as it is Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary. TOI has learned special provisions will be made at platforms from where passengers will board trains to Kashmir. "There will be special security arrangements for thorough check of goods, luggage and passengers, something similar to boarding flights," said an official.

On the changes made in the trains to meet weather conditions, sources said the heating system will ensure that there is no chance of frost formation on wheels and brakes. Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India . Don't miss daily games like Crossword , Sudoku , Location Guesser and Mini Crossword .

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