Jammu, Mar 30 : General Manager of Northern Railway Rajesh Kumar Pandey conducted a comprehensive inspection of the Katra–Srinagar–Baramulla rail section over two days, reviewing safety measures and passenger amenities, officials said on Monday.
Pandey inspected the Katra to Srinagar stretch on March 29 and carried out a detailed review from Budgam to Baramulla on March 30, accompanied by Divisional Railway Manager Jammu Vivek Kumar and other senior officials.
The inspection focused on assessing the operational readiness of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a key national infrastructure initiative.
Officials said the General Manager undertook a detailed examination of safety aspects of tracks, bridges and tunnels, considering the challenging terrain of the region.
He also reviewed railway stations in the Kashmir Valley, including those being developed under the Amrit Bharat Scheme, and assessed passenger amenities.
Pandey inspected key infrastructure, including the Anji Khad Bridge and the Chenab Bridge, and also visited the Anantnag Goods Terminal, a major hub for freight operations in the Valley.
He held discussions with divisional officials on future railway projects and directed them to complete pending works within stipulated timelines while ensuring strict adherence to safety standards.
The inspection is seen as a step towards strengthening rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country, officials said.(KNS)
