Srinagar, Jul 21 (KNS): General Manager Northern Railway, Shobhan Choudhuri conducted an intensive inspection of the Banihal-Baramulla rail section of USBRL Project in Kashmir Valley.
During the inspection, Choudhuri as per the statement issued to the Kashmir News Service (KNS), was accompanied by CAO USBRL, S P Mahi along with Chief Area Manager Srinagar, a team of USBRL Project and other senior officials of Firozpur Division.
It said that the inspection commenced with a comprehensive evaluation of passenger amenities at prominent railway stations in the Kashmir Valley, namely Baramulla, Budgam, Srinagar, Anantnag and Qazigund.
Shobhan Choudhuri, instructed the railway officials to ensure the punctual and safe running of trains while prioritizing the provision of essential facilities to all passengers at these stations. He emphasized enhancing the overall travel experience for railway users.
The General Manager was apprised of several upcoming initiatives planned for the Kashmir Valley viz; establishment of goods' sheds at strategic locations such as Baramulla, Sopore, Pampore, Awantipora, and Anantnag.It is expected that it will significantly boost the regional trade and commerce.
Choudhuri inspected the train maintenance facilities at DEMU Shed, Budgam. He inspected the Vistadome coach there and instructed officials to maintain the high-quality standards.
During the inspection, a comprehensive status report and final location survey (FLS) of key railway projects in the region was also presented to Shobhan Choudhuri.
The key railway projects in the region include the Qazigund-Baramulla doubling, Baramulla-Uri line, Sopore-Kupwara line, Awantipora-Shopian line, and Anantnag-Pahalgam line. Such vital infrastructural developments are poised to revolutionize the railway network in Kashmir Valley, paving the way for improved connectivity and economic growth.
During the inspection, Shobhan Choudhuri took stock of the various aspects of the railway system and made significant observations regarding passenger amenities, infrastructure development, railway electrification and implementation of MEMU train services.
Choudhuri emphasized the urgency of putting MEMU train services into operation as soon as possible. These initiatives are expected to drive the Northern Railway's commitment to sustainability and efficiency while providing commuters with modern and eco-friendly travel options.
The General Manager expressed admiration for the successful implementation of the One Station One Product (OSOP) Scheme in the Kashmir Valley. This scheme has not only generated local employment opportunities but has also provided a significant boost to the promotion of indigenous products and the local economy.(KNS).