During the meeting, Omar Abdullah praised the Jammu–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express for its quality of service, passenger comfort, and punctuality. The train has become a key milestone in improving connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and other parts of India.
The Chief Minister highlighted the increasing public demand for better rail accessibility and requested a stoppage for the Vande Bharat Express at Anantnag to facilitate travel for residents of South Kashmir and nearby regions.
Omar Abdullah also brought attention to the scheduled closure of Srinagar International Airport from October 1 to October 15, 2026, for essential runway maintenance and resurfacing. Since this period coincides with a peak tourist season in the Valley, he stressed that the closure could affect the movement of tourists, pilgrims, and locals.
To address this, the Chief Minister urged the Railway Ministry to increase the frequency of Vande Bharat trains during the airport closure and related flight restrictions. He emphasized that enhanced rail connectivity would provide a dependable alternative to air travel, ensuring smooth passenger movement and supporting tourism and economic activities in the region.
He also noted that improved rail services during this time would benefit visitors arriving for the festive Durga Puja holidays and assist pilgrims and local residents with their travel needs.
It is noteworthy that on April 30, 2026, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and other dignitaries launched the Vande Bharat Express service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar. This service created the first direct rail link between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley.
