In a significant step towards strengthening passenger amenities in the Jammu Division, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Jammu Vivek Kumar today inaugurated a newly constructed escalator between Platforms 2 and 3 at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station. Senior divisional officers and railway employees were present on the occasion.

The newly installed escalator is expected to greatly facilitate the movement of thousands of passengers and pilgrims who visit the station daily, particularly the elderly, differently-abled persons, women and children. The facility will make it easier for passengers to move between platforms, especially those travelling with heavy luggage.

Katra Railway Station witnesses a large influx of devotees throughout the year who travel to pay obeisance at the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. With the addition of this escalator, passengers will experience improved convenience and reduced physical strain while navigating the busy station premises.Officials said the escalator will also help in better crowd management on the platforms and save valuable time for passengers during train arrivals and departures.

After the inauguration, the Divisional Railway Manager conducted a detailed inspection of the station premises and reviewed various passenger facilities. He issued directions to the concerned officials to maintain high standards of cleanliness and continue efforts to further improve amenities for travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, DRM Vivek Kumar said that providing world-class facilities to passengers remains the top priority of Indian Railways. “The installation of this escalator at Katra Railway Station will make the travel experience of pilgrims undertaking the Vaishno Devi Yatra more comfortable and convenient,” he said.Railway authorities reiterated their commitment to continuously upgrade infrastructure and passenger facilities to ensure a smooth and pleasant journey for devotees and other passengers visiting the important pilgrimage destination.