Jammu, Jun 9: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for accepting the long-pending demand to operate a special train between Jammu and Haridwar on the occasion of Somvati Amavasya, facilitating the pilgrimage of devotees from Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr. Singh said the decision reflects the Centre’s commitment towards addressing the aspirations and requirements of the people of the region. He thanked Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for responding positively to the request for the operation of the special service.
According to an official communication dated June 3, 2026, Dr. Jitendra Singh had written to the Railway Minister forwarding a representation submitted by Shri Prem Nath Dogra, State Executive Member and In-Charge of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in Jammu and Kashmir.
The request sought the introduction of a special train from Jammu to Haridwar on June 14 and its return journey from Haridwar to Jammu on June 15 to enable pilgrims to observe Somvati Amavasya at the holy city.
“I thank Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw for accepting the demand to run a special train between Jammu and Haridwar on the occasion of Amavasya. In the last 12 years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there has not been a single demand from the region that has gone unconceded,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said.
The special train is expected to provide major relief to devotees planning to visit Haridwar for the auspicious occasion, ensuring convenient and hassle-free travel for pilgrims from Jammu and adjoining areas.
The move has been widely welcomed by locals and religious pilgrims, who termed it a significant step towards improving connectivity and responding to public needs in a timely manner.
