First successful trial run of train on Katra-Banihal section
Banihal/Jammu, Jan 4 (PTI) Meandering through the Himalayas and snow-capped mountains, the first trial train successfully ran on the Katra-Banihal section on Saturday, in a crucial step towards the final statutory safety inspection next week to determine the commencement of rail services to Kashmir.
The Railways has conducted six trials over the past month on various segments of the track, including major milestones such as India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge, and the iconic arch bridge over the Chenab at Kauri – the world’s highest railway bridge.
“Under the safety trials, we conducted today’s trial. We were part of this run, and it was successful,” Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) Sandeep Gupta told reporters.
He said that the Commissioner of Railway Safety would conduct statutory inspections and trials on January 7 and 8.
“After that, the commissioner will submit a report, which will guide further action on starting train services to Kashmir,” he said.
“Everything has worked well so far. We will return to Katra at a speed of 75 kmph. When the Commissioner of Railway Safety conducts trials, they will be at 110 kmph. This trial is in preparation for that,” Gupta added.
The first train run, conducted between Katra and Banihal, thrilled passengers as it passed through snow-covered mountains, where nature’s beauty met engineering marvels.
The train reached Banihal railway station around 1:30 pm, officials said.
