Srinagar: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned recent reports that train passengers traveling to and from Kashmir must deboard at Katra due to security concerns.
The party has termed the decision a needless inconvenience to the people of the Valley, describing it as another step that exacerbates their hardships.In a statement issued here, PDP General Secretary Mohammad Khurshid Alam criticized the measure, saying it undermines the much-touted promise of convenience for Kashmiris.
“For years, we were told that train services to Kashmir would benefit the common masses and ease travel. This latest directive proves that Kashmiris are far from experiencing travel convenience.
The train services inaugurated amid great fanfare are turning out to be nothing more than a facade,” Alam said.According to reports, all trains traveling to Srinagar or returning to New Delhi will stop at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station in Katra, Jammu, for transshipment. Passengers will need to change trains at Katra to continue their journeys.
Alam described the arrangement as an additional burden on travelers, particularly the elderly and those traveling for medical treatment.”This decision subjects common people to unnecessary hardships.
Security concerns should not be used as an excuse. Adequate checks can be conducted at the start of the journey. Forcing passengers to deboard midway and board another train in the name of security is both humiliating and impractical,” Alam remarked.
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