The terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has shocked the entire country. The attack, targeting tourists, sends a message that the terrorists want to harm tourism in the valley. In this situation, people are questioning what will happen to the Vande Bharat train running to Kashmir. Will the Katra-Vande Bharat Express start soon, or will we have to wait due to security concerns? Not only the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, but also the world’s highest rail bridge, the Chenab Rail Bridge in Kashmir, has tightened security.
Katra-Kashmir Vande Bharat: When Will the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Start?
Security in Kashmir has been tightened after the Pahalgam terror attack. The government has imposed several restrictions in Pakistan, and the security around the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat rail line has been strengthened. The authorities are ensuring that the rail line remains secure and unaffected by terrorist activities. The running of the Vande Bharat train on this line, connecting Kashmir to the rest of the country, is highly anticipated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to flag off the train on April 19, but due to bad weather, the event had to be postponed. It was expected that a new date would be announced soon, but the Pahalgam attack may cause further delays. People are now waiting for an official announcement.
Chenab Bridge: Who is Guarding the Chenab Bridge?
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian Railways has increased security around the Chenab Rail Bridge, Anji Bridge, and the entire Srinagar-Katra rail line. The railway line is now being closely monitored from the surrounding hills. RPF (Railway Protection Force) personnel have been deployed to protect critical locations such as tunnels and bridges. Himanshu Shekhar, the Chief Public Relations Officer of Northern Railways, mentioned that the Srinagar-Katra rail line is unique, with two world-record bridges: the Chenab Bridge, the highest rail bridge in the world, and the cable-stayed Anji Bridge. As a result, security around these bridges, as well as the railway line, has been strengthened.
Chenab Rail Bridge: Increased RPF Deployment
While RPF personnel were already stationed along the Katra railway line, the number of security personnel has increased significantly after the Pahalgam attack. This entire line is being monitored carefully, with a special focus on tunnels and bridges. The liaison between RPF, local police, and security agencies has been strengthened to ensure the safety of the Chenab Bridge. Besides the Chenab and Anji Bridges, additional security measures have been put in place at locations where important equipment for train operations is installed.