KATRA: As the valley delves into jubilation over freshly launched rail connectivity, traders in adjacent Jammu were a bit subdued, apprehending a loss of business because of the travellers bypassing them wholesale straight to Kashmir.
As a result, traders’ outfits in the district have urged the government to think about the economic impact and address it.
Businessman Sudarshan Singh called for a dedicated policy to protect Jammu’s trade and livelihood.
“It’s not just about commerce, it will impact tourism, travel, and the everyday life of people in Jammu. We urge the government to take proactive steps to safeguard local interests,” Singh said.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Katra inaugurated the Chenab bridge and India’s first cable-stayed Anji bridge, both symbols of India’s engineering excellence, before flagging off Vande Bharat trains to mark the completion of the 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway link (USBRL) providing direct train connectivity to the Valley.
President of Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Arun Gupta, was all praise for the development.
“I would like to thank the prime minister for fulfilling such a dream, as a train is now able to reach Kashmir. So many efforts must have been made for this, and I congratulate him as well as the residents of Jammu and Kashmir,” Gupta said.
In the valley, the enhanced rail connectivity is expected to significantly boost tourist footfall, streamline the transport of agricultural, horticultural, and handicraft products to national markets, and ensure faster, more cost-effective movement of goods, raw materials, and passengers.
“It is a game changer for the economy of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the valley. It’s a new economic lifeline not only for Kashmir but also for the areas along the route. It will positively impact every aspect of life here,” Satesh Verma, an author who had come from Delhi, said.
Beyond its impact on tourism, the new rail link is expected to energise the local economy. Kashmir’s apple, walnut, almond, and saffron producers hope the improved connectivity will eliminate logistical bottlenecks, reduce spoilage, and attract greater investment.
“Whether you are heading to Kashmir for business, leisure, or spiritual retreat, this train redefines the journey with speed, comfort, and elegance,” said Anand Dev, a businessman from Uttar Pradesh.
He hoped that the stations en route would serve both tourism and regional mobility, enhancing economic and cultural connectivity across northern India.
The Indian Railways has termed the train a “new boost to tourism and trade,” highlighting its role in fueling economic growth and strengthening the Valley’s crucial tourism sector.
“This new transportation mode will give a major boost to agriculture and horticulture. Products like apples, cherries, grapes, and apricots can now reach markets in Mumbai and elsewhere within 24 to 36 hours, fetching better prices,” said Dilip Kumar, Executive Director, Railways.
He noted that farmers could expect to earn 20-30 per cent higher rates for their produce “Similarly, tourists can now directly reach Kashmir from Delhi and other places, significantly increasing footfall,” he added.
For the locals, the service is equally transformative.
“Earlier, people had to travel to Jammu to board a train. Now, they can board it from the Valley itself, which is a huge relief,” an official said.
Nazakat Saleem, a local woman from Kashmir and relative of a railway employee, pointed out that during winter months, road connectivity is often disrupted.
“Now we have an alternative. Many people can’t afford air travel due to high costs. This train is the best transport option for us.”
