The Northern Railway on Thursday announced the opening of Anantnag railway station in Jammu division for the transport of goods, marking a significant boost to economic activities in the Kashmir Valley.
The Northern Railway said, “As a major step towards promoting economic activity in the Kashmir Valley, Northern Railway has officially opened the Anantnag railway station under its Jammu division for the movement of goods. With this decision, Anantnag is now equipped to handle freight, providing businesses across Kashmir with a new and efficient transport option.”
The station will operate daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and will handle all types of goods – except petroleum products – via railway. The move is described as an important milestone in the development of the Baramulla–Srinagar–Banihal railway corridor, part of the Udhampur -Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link project.
According to the Railways, the key benefits of the decision include improved market access for Kashmiri products such as horticulture produce, handicrafts, and fresh fruits and vegetables; lower transportation costs for local businesses and traders; faster and more reliable deliveries, especially during winter when road transport is often disrupted; and strengthened economic ties between Kashmir and markets across India.
The opening comes as the Valley achieves full rail connectivity from Katra to Srinagar, including the historic construction of Chenab Bridge, the world’s tallest railway arch bridge. Officials believe these developments will transform the logistics and business landscape of the region.
Authorities have assured that all environmental, security, and safety guidelines will be strictly followed at the station. Local industry bodies and residents have welcomed the move, calling it a timely and transformative step for Kashmir’s economic growth.
(IANS)