Game Changer for Pilgrims: New Jammu-Katra Rail Line Approved

Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on 30 July 2025 the approval of the Final Location Survey (FLS) for a new railway line connecting Jammu to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. The proposed line aims to enhance travel convenience and efficiency for the millions of pilgrims visiting the sacred shrine annually.

This marks the first major railway expansion toward the Kashmir Valley in five decades and aligns with the Central Government’s broader vision to boost infrastructure and tourism in the region.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jammu & Kashmir has seen a renewed focus on transformative infrastructure development, especially in transportation. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra station—located at the foothills of the Trikuta mountains—serves as a vital gateway for devotees, and the proposed expansion is expected to further improve accessibility while supporting regional economic and tourism growth.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.