Prep on for unveiling Vande Bharat, train running in Kashmir cries for attention

As the Railways and local authorities gear up for inauguration of Vande Bharat train from Kashmir to Katra, commuters say the rail running within the Valley is crying for civic attention as its condition continues to worsen.

- Ashiq Hussain

SRINAGAR:

According to frequent travellers, the train from Sangaldan to Baramulla is almost always over 20 minutes late, and the coaches as well as the tracks are in a deplorable condition, with the condition worsening significantly in the past three months. The train started in the Valley in 2009.

The commuters said the frequent delay is caused by damaged track between Hamrey and Baramulla.

"The track between Hamrey and Baramulla stations is damaged, and they reduce the train speed to 30 kmph for safety. It has been like this for three months, with no repairs going on or expected anytime soon," said a teacher who travels on the train regularly, requesting not to be named.

"The train is always late by an average of 25 minutes and people, particularly employees, get frustrated," the teacher said.