South Kashmir residents demand ‘Vande Bharat’ halt stations in Pulwama, Anantnag

Pulwama: Amid growing public interest in enhanced rail connectivity, residents of South Kashmir, particularly from Pulwama and Anantnag districts, have urged the government and railway authorities to introduce halt stations for the prestigious Vande Bharat Express in their areas.
While the Vande Bharat train currently runs through the region, residents lament that the train does not stop at any station in South Kashmir, depriving thousands of commuters, traders, students, and patients of a fast and comfortable travel option.
Locals from various parts of Pulwama and Anantnag expressed their disappointment over being excluded from the list of stopovers. They believe that adding a halt station in either district—or ideally both—would significantly benefit the local population and boost economic activity in the region.
“It is ironic that the train passes through our district, but we can’t board it,” said Mohammad Ramzan, a resident of Anantnag town.
“This is a modern train meant for the common people, but excluding Anantnag and Pulwama from the halt list makes it look like a privilege only for a few,” he added.
People from Pulwama echoed similar sentiments. “Pulwama district has thousands of students, patients, and businessmen commuting daily to Jammu and Srinagar. We strongly appeal for a halt station to be established here,” said Shabir Ahmad Bhat, a local trader from Kakapora.
The residents argue that South Kashmir has long been neglected in terms of transportation infrastructure. With both Anantnag and Pulwama housing important educational institutions, medical facilities, and commercial hubs, they believe adding Vande Bharat halts in these locations is both logical and necessary.
“It’s not just about convenience, it’s about inclusion,” said Zahida Qadir, a college student from Bijbehara. “Why should we travel all the way to Banihal or Srinagar to board the train, when the tracks pass right next to our towns,” they said.
Locals have called upon the Railway Ministry and J&K administration to consider the request seriously.
“If the government is committed to equitable development, it must ensure such flagship projects benefit every region equally,” said Farooq Lone, a social activist from Awantipora
Locals have requested local administration to take up issue with concerned authorities at an earliest.