Congress Criticizes PM for Overlooking Continuity in Kashmir Rail Project

Fast Summary

• The Congress party described the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL) as a significant example of continuity in governance, accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of disregarding such continuity in favor of “self-glory.”
• The USBRL project spans 272 km thru the Himalayas and costs Rs.43,780 crore. It is set for inauguration by PM Modi on June 6, 2025.
• Congress leader Jairam Ramesh highlighted significant milestones for USBRL as its initial sanction in March 1995 under PM P.V.Narasimha Rao:

– declared a national project under PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in March 2002.- Multiple rail link inaugurations occurred between Jammu and Baramulla from 2005 to 2013 during PM Manmohan Singh’s tenure.
– The Udhampur-Katra link was inaugurated by PM Modi on July 4, 2014.- Major contracts for the Chenab Bridge were awarded by konkan Railway Corporation and others as early as 2005.

• Ramesh credited contributions from Indian Railways personnel, public sector units, private companies, and officials involved over three decades but emphasized previous administrations’ efforts before its finalization under PM Modi’s leadership.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The USBRL represents an engineering triumph spanning three decades and challenging terrain in the Himalayas. Its trajectory-from inception to completion-illustrates India’s ability to sustain large-scale infrastructural projects across multiple governments with varied political ideologies. Such consistency highlights the importance of bipartisan efforts united by shared developmental goals rather than political differences.

Statements from Congress leaders emphasize historical contributions across administrations prior to its final milestone under prime Minister Modi’s government while aligning with democratic norms that celebrate collective progress. However, contrasting views on acknowledgment of continuity could spark broader discussions about how developmental legacies are recognized amidst contemporary governance narratives.

Ultimately, this monumental achievement underscores India’s resolve towards economic integration of sensitive regions like Jammu & Kashmir while advancing technological infrastructure-a strategic priority not only regionally but for national connectivity aspirations.

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