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  • DRM Vivek Kumar says facility will ease movement of pilgrims visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine

JAMMU: In a significant step towards strengthening passenger amenities in the Jammu Division, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Jammu Vivek Kumar today inaugurated a newly constructed escalator between Platforms 2 and 3 at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station. Senior divisional officers and railway employees were present on the occasion.

The newly installed escalator is expected to greatly facilitate the movement of thousands of passengers and pilgrims who visit the station daily, particularly the elderly, differently-abled persons, women and children. The facility will make it easier for passengers to move between platforms, especially those travelling with heavy luggage.

Katra Railway Station witnesses a large influx of devotees throughout the year who travel to pay obeisance at the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. With the addition of this escalator, passengers will experience improved convenience and reduced physical strain while navigating the busy station premises.Officials said the escalator will also help in better crowd management on the platforms and save valuable time for passengers during train arrivals and departures.

After the inauguration, the Divisional Railway Manager conducted a detailed inspection of the station premises and reviewed various passenger facilities. He issued directions to the concerned officials to maintain high standards of cleanliness and continue efforts to further improve amenities for travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, DRM Vivek Kumar said that providing world-class facilities to passengers remains the top priority of Indian Railways. “The installation of this escalator at Katra Railway Station will make the travel experience of pilgrims undertaking the Vaishno Devi Yatra more comfortable and convenient,” he said.Railway authorities reiterated their commitment to continuously upgrade infrastructure and passenger facilities to ensure a smooth and pleasant journey for devotees and other passengers visiting the important pilgrimage destination.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here