JAMMU: India’s 70th Railway Division, the Jammu Division of Northern Railway, has completed one year of operations, marking a transformative phase in rail connectivity and economic development in Jammu and Kashmir.
Officially established and inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 6, 2025, the Jammu Division has played a pivotal role in connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, instilling a renewed sense of hope and progress across the region.
During 2025, the division achieved several historic milestones, most notably the inauguration of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), ensuring all-weather rail connectivity to the Valley. The dedication of the iconic Chenab and Anji rail bridges—engineering marvels of global repute—further underscored the scale and ambition of the project.
Rail connectivity received a major boost with the introduction of Vande Bharat trains, including the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi–Srinagar Vande Bharat service, which has already served over 3.75 lakh passengers, significantly reducing travel time and improving passenger comfort.
The division also strengthened religious tourism, particularly through enhanced connectivity on the Katra–Amritsar route, facilitating smoother travel for devotees and pilgrims.
On the economic front, freight movement witnessed a sharp rise. More than 20,000 tonnes of apples and 1.5 lakh tonnes of cement were transported, benefiting farmers, traders and industries. The Anantnag Goods Shed, with a handling capacity of 1.5 lakh tonnes of cement, improved regional logistics. For the first time, automobile and food grain rakes reached the Valley, while cherries and mulberries were successfully transported from Kashmir to Bandra, marking a major logistical achievement.
Revenue generation also showed strong growth, with over ₹94 crore secured through new non-fare revenue contracts. Additionally, ₹3.72 crore was recovered from over 63,000 cases during ticket-checking drives.
Railway officials credited the success to the tireless efforts of railway employees, who remained on duty round-the-clock to ensure safety, convenience and uninterrupted services.
Marking the completion of one year, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal said, “The year 2025 was challenging for the Jammu Division, but the Railways made every possible effort to ensure the safety, comfort and convenience of passengers. The Jammu Division is rapidly moving towards excellence, and this new chapter is bringing better connectivity and prosperity to the people of Kashmir. In 2026, we will begin the second chapter with new projects and renewed momentum.”
The achievements of the Jammu Division are being seen as a historic step in transforming connectivity and livelihoods in Jammu and Kashmir, ushering in a new era of development and integration.
