On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the world's highest rail bridge in Jammu & Kashmir. The ceremony marked the opening of the Chenab Rail Bridge and saw the flagging off of the Vande Bharat Express from Katra to Srinagar, integrating Kashmir with the rest of the nation through rail connectivity. The chief minister of the Union Territory, Omar Abdullah, was present on this momentous occasion. While addressing a public gathering in Katra, Abdullah praised PM Modi and expressed optimism for the restoration of full statehood soon.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted that numerous people dreamt of this railway connection. The British envisioned linking Kashmir with the rest of the nation via the Uri-Jhelum rail, a dream they were unable to realize. Today, this vision has been achieved under your leadership, connecting Kashmir with India. Abdullah emphasized gratitude toward former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, acknowledging it as a significant oversight if unmentioned at such a historic juncture.
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He recalled that the project's foundation was laid during 1983-84, as he was then an eighth-grade student. Now at 55, with college-graduated children, the project finally sees completion. Abdullah noted Vajpayee's administration's role in prioritizing this as a national project and allocating the necessary budget, leading to its fruition.
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He further mentioned the immense benefits this project brings to Jammu & Kashmir. With inclement weather often closing highways, they often faced exploitation by airlines. The project's completion will eliminate such predicaments, ensuring seamless travel. This development is poised to boost tourism significantly.
