PM Narendra Modi marked a significant milestone in the development of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, June 6, just weeks after the Pahalgam terror attack, by launching a series of major infrastructure projects. Among the highlights was the inauguration of the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River and the flagging off of two Vande Bharat Express trains from Katra to Srinagar.
The Chenab and Anji bridges, both engineering marvels, are key elements of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which now ensures seamless rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India.
Addressing a public gathering, PM Modi reassured the people of Jammu and Kashmir of his unwavering commitment to the region’s progress. He vowed that development would not be derailed, declaring that any obstacle – an apparent reference to Pakistan-backed terrorism – would have to confront him first, alluding to India’s recent Operation Sindoor response.
“Unfortunately, our neighbouring country is against humanity and even the livelihood of the poor. What happened in Pahalgam on 22 April is an example of this. Pakistan attacked both ‘insaniyat and Kashmiriyat’ in Pahalgam. Its purpose was to cause riots in India and to obstruct the earnings of the hard-working people of Kashmir. That is why Pakistan attacked the tourists in Kashmir… Pakistan targeted the tourism that earns the families of Kashmir a livelihood,” Modi said.
He added, “Jammu & Kashmir’s development will not be shaken by the Pahalgam attack. This is Narendra Modi’s promise. If anyone stops the youth here from fulfilling their dream, to us baadha ko pehle Modi ka saamna karna padega (That obstacle will have to face Modi first).”
Modi also mentioned Syed Adil Hussain, pony ride operator killed in the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, along with 25 other civilians. “Adil, who challenged the terrorists, had also gone to Pahalgam to work so that he could take care of his family. But the terrorists killed him too… The strength that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have shown during this time has sent a stern message to the terrorist mentality of the world,” the PM said.
