|
The state of Jammu and Kashmir is all set to get its first train on October 11, 2008. According to official sources, the Prime Minister of India Manmohan Singh will flag the train off from Budgam to Nowgam during his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir. The short distance train connecting central Kashmir with Srinagar is supposed to be the first train service in the valley. Report confirms that Prime Minister will broad the train as a symbolic gesture. He will also address a public meeting at Srinagar where he is supposed to announce about the Indo-Pak ties.
Prime Minister will arrive at Udampur district of Kashmir on October 10 where he will inaugurate the 450 MW Baglihar hydroelectric project in Doda region. The Baglihar project has been under controversies since its inception as Pakistan feels that after the construction of the dam all the water will divert away from its territory. The hydro-elercric project will be built on Chenub river which flows from Jammu and Kashmir into Pakistan.
During his visit, Manmohan Singh is also supposed to meet a business delegation from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The launch of train service in Kashmir will enable it to improve the state transport and communication system. This little step might lead to the plan of connecting the valley with entire country. As per sources, currently the new train will be used for the conveyance of passengers. The commercial use of the train will be planned later on.
