Omkar Dattatray
As Northern Railway’s Jammu Division approaches the first anniversary of its inauguration, the year 2025 stands out as a period of remarkable progress and historic achievement. Established as India’s 70th Railway Division and virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 6, 2025, the division has played a pivotal role in integrating the Kashmir Valley with the national railway network. This integration has fostered renewed hope, all-weather connectivity, and economic, social and cultural growth across Jammu and Kashmir, while significantly strengthening national integration by connecting Kashmir with the southernmost tip of the country at Kanyakumari.
Northern Railway’s Jammu Division has completed its first year of operations, and within this short span it has delivered several major milestones benefiting the economy, tourism, pilgrim traffic and, above all, the people of this strategically sensitive border region. In 2026, the division is expected to achieve even greater progress, further strengthening regional connectivity, infrastructure development and socio-economic growth.
Reflecting on the inaugural year, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Uchit Singhal, stated that despite facing numerous challenges, the Jammu Division remained focused on passenger convenience, safety and seamless travel. “These accomplishments are propelling us towards excellence, ushering in enhanced connectivity and prosperity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially Kashmir. In 2026, we will script the next chapter with ambitious new projects and continued innovation,” he said.
Among the major highlights of 2025 were the full commissioning of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), the dedication of the iconic Chenab and Anji bridges, the launch of Vande Bharat Express services, enhanced religious tourism and a sharp rise in goods transportation. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express alone has transported more than 3.75 lakh passengers, significantly reducing travel time and improving comfort for commuters and pilgrims. Enhanced connectivity through Katra has strengthened spiritual linkages and made pilgrimages to religious shrines in Jammu and Kashmir far more accessible.
Rail connectivity has also delivered strong economic gains. More than 20,000 tonnes of apples and about 1.5 lakh tonnes of cement were transported by rail during the year, directly supporting farmers, industries and local economies. For the first time since Independence, automobiles and food-grain rakes reached the Valley, while cherries and mulberries were successfully shipped from Kashmir to Bandra, marking a major logistical breakthrough.
Key Achievements of Jammu Division in 2025
- USBRL Integration:The 272-km rail link connected the Kashmir Valley with India’s national network on a year-round basis.
- Engineering Feats:Inauguration of the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab and India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge at Anji.
- Passenger Services:Successful operation of Vande Bharat trains, serving over 3.75 lakh passengers.
- Freight Growth:Significant rise in freight movement, particularly apples and cement, with Anantnag goods shed playing a key role.
- Economic Boost:Expansion of trade, tourism and market access for farmers and fruit growers.
Operational Highlights
- Revenue:Over ₹94 crore earned from non-fare revenue and ₹3.72 crore collected through ticket-checking drives.
- New Goods Traffic:Introduction of automobile and food-grain rakes, along with new export streams.
Impact on Jammu & Kashmir
The rail expansion has accelerated economic development, generated employment opportunities for local youth and greatly improved logistics through modernised goods sheds.
In essence, the first year of the Jammu Railway Division has ushered in a new era of connectivity, development and prosperity for Jammu and Kashmir. Its achievements are widely seen as a historic step towards transforming livelihoods, strengthening national integration and securing long-term growth for the region.
(The author is a columnist, social activist and freelance writer)
