Srinagar, Apr 30: Member of Parliament Anantnag–Rajouri, Mian Altaf Ahmad on Thursday welcomed the extension of Vande Bharat Express from Jammu-Srinagar while demanding Vande Bharat stop at Anantnag station.
In a statement, Mian Altaf Ahmad said, “the extension of Vande Bharat is a welcome step however I urge the Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, requesting that Anantnag Railway Station be included as a scheduled stop for the Vande Bharat Express.”
Mian Altaf said that he has earlier requested the Railways Minister to consider the addition of a halt of Vande Bharat at Anantnag station adding that I again remind and request the Railways minister to consider this demand in the larger interest of the people.
Mian Altaf described the launch of the extended Vande Bharat Express as a milestone connecting the Valley to the national rail network, but expressed concern over the absence of a halt at Anantnag, calling it an inconvenience for South Kashmir residents.The MP highlighted that while Banihal primarily functions as a transit point, Anantnag handles a large permanent population including students, traders, professionals, and government employees.
“Providing a stoppage at Anantnag would ensure equitable access to premium rail services for South Kashmir, which has a larger catchment area ,” he added.
The MP urged the Railway Minister to direct authorities to designate Anantnag as an official stop at the earliest, adding that the move would be welcomed by South Kashmir residents and mark another people-focused initiative of the Ministry.
