Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu calls on J&K CM, discusses railway projects

Srinagar, Jul 9: Union Railways Minister Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu on Thursday called on the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister here and discussed issues relating to introduction of more train services in the state and the completion of Katra-Banihal railway line.

"During their meeting, the Union Minister and Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed discussed wide-ranging issues relating to introduction of more train services and completion of Katra-Banihal railway line within the stipulated timeline," an official spokesman said.

Once complete, the Katra-Banihal railway line will provide an all-weather link to Valley with the rest of the country. The Chief Minister stressed on putting in place an institutional grid to fast-track progress on all issues pertaining to construction of Katra-Banihal Railway Line.

Describing railway connectivity as a vital all-weather alternate link in the state, Sayeed requested Prabhu to introduce special services like 'Palace on Wheels' at various tourist destinations.

He also suggested opening of new Passenger Reservation Service (PRS) Centres at Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Patnitop to facilitate the tourists, the spokesman said.

He said Prabhu indicated to the Chief Minister starting of a train service, with support from Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation, exclusively for tourists in which renowned Kashmiri cuisine, 'Wazwan' will be served to the visitors.

The Union Minister said his ministry would reserve stalls at vantage points on various railway stations under the 'Station Development Programme' of Indian Railways to promote state's artifacts.

PTI