Katra (J&K): Dedicating multiple development projects worth over Rs 46,000 crore to the nation at Katra in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that with the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi, the Valley of Kashmir is now connected to India’s vast railway network.
“We have always invoked Maa Bharati with deep reverence, saying ‘from Kashmir to Kanyakumari,’ today, this has become a reality even in our railway network,” exclaimed the Prime Minister addressing a public gathering here at Sports Stadium.
He emphasised that the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line Project (USBRL) is not just a name but a symbol of Jammu and Kashmir’s new strength and a testament to India’s growing capabilities.
In line with the commitment to boosting rail infrastructure and connectivity in the region, he inaugurated the Chenab and Anji rail bridges and flagged off Vande Bharat Trains, enhancing connectivity within Jammu and Kashmir.
Additionally, Modi also laid the foundation stone for a new medical college in Jammu, reinforcing the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare facilities in the region, stating that Rs 46,000 crore worth of projects will accelerate development in Jammu and Kashmir, driving progress and prosperity.
The Prime Minister extended his best wishes and congratulated the people on this new era of growth and transformation, and underlined that generations in Jammu and Kashmir had long dreamt of railway connectivity. That dream has become a reality today, he said.
Referring to a recent statement by former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Prime Minister noted that even as a student in seventh or eighth grade, Abdullah had been anticipating the completion of this project.
Modi emphasised that the fulfillment of this long-awaited aspiration marks a historic moment for millions of people in Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and progress.
Stating that it is a privilege for the government that this ambitious railway project has now been completed, Modi emphasised the challenges encountered, like the difficult terrain, extreme weather conditions, and falling rocks in the mountains, making the project immensely tough and demanding.
However, he remarked that his government has consistently chosen to face challenges head-on and overcome them with determination.
The Prime Minister noted that numerous all-weather infrastructure projects underway in Jammu and Kashmir exemplify this commitment.
He cited the recently-opened Sonmarg Tunnel and his experience traveling over the Chenab Bridge and Anji Bridge as remarkable milestones.
Modi lauded the engineering brilliance and unwavering dedication of India’s engineers and workers, stating that the Chenab Bridge, the world’s tallest railway arch bridge, stands as a testament to India’s ambition.
He observed that while people travel to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower, the Chenab Bridge surpasses it in height, making it not only a crucial infrastructure achievement but also an emerging tourist attraction.
Similarly, the Prime Minister described the Anji Bridge as an engineering marvel, being India’s first cable-supported railway bridge, he added.
He asserted that these structures are not just steel and concrete, but living symbols of India’s strength, standing tall in the rugged Pir Panjal mountains.
Modi declared that these achievements represent India’s vision for a developed nation, proving that as grand as India’s dream of progress is, so too is its resilience, capability, and determination.
He also emphasised that pure intentions and relentless dedication are the driving forces behind India’s transformation. Emphasising that both the Chenab Bridge and Anji Bridge will serve as catalysts for prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir, he further said, “these landmark projects will not only boost tourism but also benefit various sectors of the economy, creating new opportunities for businesses and industries”.
He highlighted that enhanced rail connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir will open new doors for local entrepreneurs, driving economic growth.
Modi noted that Kashmir’s apples will now reach major markets across India at lower costs, making trade more efficient.
The Prime Minister stated that this improved connectivity will also make travel more convenient for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, allowing smoother movement across different parts of India.
Modi shared a touching comment from a student in Sangaldan, who stated that until now, only those who had traveled outside their village had seen a train in real life.
The Prime Minister also highlighted a thoughtful remark from a young girl who stated that from now, the weather will no longer decide whether the roads remain open or closed.
“This new train service will help people in all seasons. “Jammu and Kashmir is the crown of Mother India, adorned with dazzling jewels—each representing the region’s immense strength and beauty”, described the Prime Minister, praising its ancient culture, traditions, spiritual consciousness, breathtaking landscapes, medicinal herbs, flourishing orchards, and vibrant youth talent, stating that these qualities shine like precious gemstones in India’s crown.
Having visited Jammu and Kashmir for decades, the Prime Minister affirmed his deep understanding of the region’s potential and reiterated his dedication to the continuous development and upliftment of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring prosperity for its people.
“Jammu and Kashmir has long been a pillar of India’s education and cultural heritage,” affirmed the Prime Minister.
He added that as India establishes itself as a global knowledge hub, it will see the growing participation of Jammu and Kashmir in this transformation.
Modi pointed out the presence of premier institutions such as IIT, IIM, AIIMS, and NIT, alongside Central Universities in Jammu and Srinagar, strengthening academic excellence in the region.
Modi highlighted that MBBS seats in Jammu and Kashmir have risen from 500 to 1,300, ensuring greater access to medical education.
Additionally, the Reasi district is set to receive a new medical college, enhancing healthcare facilities for the region.
The Prime Minister praised the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, describing it as not only a modern hospital but also an embodiment of India’s rich tradition of philanthropy.
He also lauded the contributions of devotees from across India, whose donations helped establish the institution. Extending his best wishes, Modi congratulated the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board for its dedicated efforts in this noble endeavor.
He also announced that the hospital’s capacity would be expanded from 300 to 500 beds, further improving medical services.
The Prime Minister noted that this development would provide greater convenience to devotees visiting Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra.
Highlighting that his government has now completed 11 years in office, dedicating this period to uplifting the poor and empowering citizens, the Prime Minister outlined several key welfare initiatives that have transformed millions of lives.
Underlining that the central government is consistently creating new employment opportunities for the youth, with tourism emerging as a significant driver of economic growth and connectivity, Modi highlighted that tourism not only generates jobs but also fosters unity among people.
UNI
