The Northern Railway has announced that the first train from Delhi to Kashmir will start on January 26, 2025. The extension of this railway line from Bhopal to Vadodara will be launched by the premier of India, Narendra Modi, in 2025—January, specifically. This development is expected to change the relationship between Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and the rest of India significantly. For many Kashmiris, this news brings hope after years of struggling with poor highway connectivity.
Challenges of Highway Travel
For the past seventy years, traveling on the National Highway has been a challenge for Kashmiris. Some say they have been surrounded by flood waters, for several days being stuck in a car with no food or warm clothes. The youths of the nation still have fresh memories of how the temperatures used to drop during winter and the consequent hike in food prices. The government has also been planning the improvement of the national highway to four lanes all weather which should be ready soon. This is going to enhance travel, making it easier and more reliable when the winter kicks in.
A Personal Journey
A father and son tell their experience of travelling from Bandipore to Aligarh for studies on 31-12-84. They took the only bus from Bandipore to Jammu that is being operated, as a new service to the place in an attempt to make frequent trips. Upon arrival in Srinagar 10:00 am but the day was watery. On having refueled, the bus proceeded to Qazigund where the highway was snowy. The fear of the remaining distance was inexplicable and people travelling included families and students. They took a lunch break at 2.00 PM because the possibility of road blockages being put up was alarming to them.
For detailed story, please visit: Awaz the voice
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