Party MLAs thank Railway Minister Vaishnaw, CM for addressing key public demand
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference Thursday welcomed the decision to provide a stoppage for the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express at Anantnag, terming it a landmark step towards strengthening rail connectivity and accelerating economic growth in South Kashmir.
In a joint statement, Education, Health and Social Welfare Minister Sakina Masood Itoo, National Conference MLAs Altaf Ahmad Wani, MLA Pahalgam; Dr. Bashir Ahmad Veeri, MLA Bijbehara; Abdul Majeed Bhat (Larmi), MLA Anantnag West; Zafar Ali Khatana, MLA Kokernag; Showkat Hussain Ganie, MLA Zainapora, Ghulam Mohiuddin Mir, MLA Rajpora, Reyaz Khan Shangus, Peerzada Faroz MLA Devsar, hailed the decision as a fulfillment of a long-pending public demand of the people of South Kashmir.
The legislators said that the introduction of the stoppage at Anantnag will bring immense relief and convenience to thousands of commuters, students, traders, tourists, and patients who rely on efficient transportation for their daily and professional needs. They noted that the move will further enhance the accessibility of South Kashmir and strengthen its integration with the broader rail network.
Describing Anantnag as the economic and cultural heart of South Kashmir, the legislators observed that the new stoppage will provide a significant boost to local trade, tourism, business activity, and employment opportunities.
They expressed gratitude to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for their sustained efforts in addressing the aspirations of the people and ensuring that genuine public demands receive due consideration. They also appreciated the role of party MPs who contributed towards making the decision a reality.
The legislators said that the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat service has already transformed travel in Jammu and Kashmir by substantially reducing journey time and providing world-class comfort, and that the inclusion of Anantnag as a stoppage will further enhance its utility and reach.