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JAMMU: Advocate Rattan Lal Gupta, Provincial President of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), said that the inauguration of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) is a landmark moment in the journey of national integration and development, calling it a historic occasion for Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking at a meeting of party functionaries held at Katra, Rattan Lal Gupta said that the completion of USBRL reflects the nation’s unwavering resolve to connect every corner of the country through world-class infrastructure. “This ambitious rail project is not just a triumph of engineering but a powerful symbol of unity, linking Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country through an all-weather lifeline,” he said.
Rattan Lal Gupta said the project was conceptualized and initiated during the tenure of Dr. Farooq Abdullah as Chief Minister, with the goal of connecting Kashmir with the rest of India through an all-weather, reliable rail network. He noted that this engineering marvel not only signifies a leap in infrastructure but also promises to boost tourism, economic activity, and regional integration.
The senior NC leader recalled that the foundation stone for the Jammu–Udhampur section was laid on April 14, 1983 by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, in the presence of Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah. The Udhampur–Katra section followed, with its foundation stone laid on March 15, 1997, by Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, while construction of the most challenging Katra–Banihal stretch began in 1997, again under the leadership of Dr. Farooq Abdullah.
Calling the upcoming event historic, Rattan Lal Gupta said inauguration by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Bhai Modi in the presence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of the rail project should be celebrated with great pomp and pride, as it will give a huge fillip to tourism, trade, employment, and economic development, acting as a game-changer for the region. "June 6 is not just a date—it is the culmination of a vision that began over four decades ago and Nation deserves full credit for this transformative milestone," he stated.
Mr Gupta called upon the Office bearers and party workers to ensure well participation on 6th of June, 2025 on the occasion of historical inauguration of Katra Kashmir rail link Vande Bharat by Prime Minister of India in the presence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Expressing concern over recent events, Abdul Gani Malik former minister and Zonal President Udhampur Reasi said the Pahalgam tragedy was a severe setback to the economy of J&K, leading to a visible decline in tourism. He pointed out that even the Jammu region, including the holy town of Katra, which heavily depends on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, has suffered economically.
He noted that after the tragedy, the entire National Conference leadership—from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to Cabinet Ministers and the grassroots cadre—has been actively working on the ground to restore normalcy and bring back tourists.
Appealing to the people across the country, Sheikh Bashir Ahmad Provincial Secretary Jammu urged them to visit J&K and pay obeisance at Mata Vaishno Devi, assuring them of peace, security, and the warm hospitality of the people of the region.
The meeting was organized and Presided by Raj Kumar Sharma, District President JKNC Reasi who called upon party workers to remain active on the ground, stay connected with the public, and work tirelessly to strengthen the party’s base at the grassroots level.
Among those present on the occasion included: Vijay Lochan Chairman SC Cell, Rakesh Singh Raka Vice President Central Zone, Tariq Butt, Ram Parkash Suri, Jugal Kishore, Ashok Kumar Mehta, Vikramjeet, Rattan Lal Block Presidents, Tufail, Pawan, Vineet, Vishal Bhagat, Dildar Singh and others.
