LG and Union Railway Minister Inaugurate First Vistadome Train from Srinagar to Banihal.
In a momentous event today, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha and Union Minister for Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, unveiled the highly anticipated Vistadome train services in the Kashmir Valley.
Through video-conferencing, Union Minister Vaishnaw and Chief Ministers of Assam and Tripura joined the ceremony, which was marked by the Lt Governor flagging off the inaugural Vistadome coach train bound for Banihal from Srinagar Station.
During the event, Union Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the remarkable transformation witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir over the past nine years, particularly after the abrogation of Article 370. He emphasized the rapid pace of development in the region, including significant infrastructure projects in the railways sector, such as the completion of the Chenab Bridge, Anji Bridge, and various tunnels.
Lt Governor Shri Manoj Sinha expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for introducing Vistadome train services to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He described Vistadome as a symbol of bringing facilities comparable to those in developed countries to the residents of J&K. He also commended Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw for enhancing the travel experience for both locals and tourists.
The Lt Governor anticipates that Vistadome services will have a profound impact on tourism, contributing to the economic growth and cultural enrichment of the region. This development is seen as a significant leap forward for the Union Territory, with the state-of-the-art Vistadome train expected to attract a large number of tourists and create livelihood opportunities for people living in connected cities, towns, and villages.
During the launch ceremony, Lt Governor Sinha also shared the positive changes and advancements in Jammu and Kashmir over recent years, particularly the substantial increase in tourism, and expressed optimism that the new Vistadome coach will further stimulate the region’s development.
The Vistadome coach, specially designed for a breathtaking experience, boasts wide windows, revolving chairs, and a glass rooftop, providing passengers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The launch event was attended by various dignitaries, including Mayor Sh Junaid Azim Mattu, Member of Parliament Dr Farooq Abdullah, Chairman of DDC Srinagar Sh Aftab Malik, senior officials from Northern Railways, and a large number of people.
