Jammu Kashmir Receives Rs 1,086 Cr in 2026–27 Rail Budget | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has been allocated approximately Rs 1,086 crore under the Union Railway Budget 2026–27, slightly higher than the region’s annual average allocation of Rs 1,044–1,086 crore over the past decade. The funding covers ongoing infrastructure projects, network expansion, station redevelopment, and electrification work across the Union Territory.

Since 2014, around 150 km of railway track has been constructed in the region, and 407 km of lines have been electrified, achieving full electrification of the state’s rail network. The government has also completed six flyovers and underpasses to improve operational efficiency and safety. Under the Amrit Station Scheme, four stations are slated for redevelopment, with an estimated investment of Rs 293 crore. Current work worth Rs 522 crore is under progress for track creation, station upgrades, and safety enhancements.

The Union Railway Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, said surveys and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) have been completed for the Baramulla–Uri line and that approval is pending. Similarly, survey and DPR work for the proposed Jammu–Rajouri rail line is underway. The Udhampur–Baramulla–Srinagar Rail Link (UBSRL), spanning 272 km, has been completed, connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India.

Vaishnaw noted that proposals for constructing two to three additional lines along the Baramulla–Srinagar stretch have been put on hold following objections from elected representatives and local farmers, who raised concerns over potential damage to apple orchards, a key economic activity in the region. The Anantnag–Pahalgam and Awantipora–Shopian lines were similarly suspended after consultations with the Union Territory administration and local stakeholders.

The introduction of Vande Bharat Express trains has expanded connectivity, with five pairs currently operational. These services have been particularly significant during winter months when road links are often disrupted.

Officials noted that the railway network is being positioned as a tool to improve mobility, tourism, and economic activity in Jammu and Kashmir. The allocation for the Union Territory is part of a broader investment across northern India, with Rs 2,911 crore earmarked for Himachal Pradesh and Rs 5,673 crore for Punjab under the 2026–27 rail budget.