• Commuters Complain of Shabby Coaches, Broken Windows, Torn Seats

• Railway Official Urges Public to Maintain Trains as Shared Asset

Srinagar- Passengers traveling on trains operating within the Kashmir Valley have expressed resentment over the deteriorating condition of the railway coaches and have urged authorities to renovate them and give the service a fresh look.

Commuters said that most trains plying between Banihal and Baramulla are in a dilapidated state, with broken windows, damaged seats, and worn-out interiors. They said that despite years of operation, the trains have not been refurbished or upgraded.

“Since the inception of the train service in the Valley, these coaches have never been given a facelift. They lack basic facilities and look like trains from the 1940s,” said one passenger, adding that the poor condition reflects neglect from the authorities.

Another commuter said that the unhygienic interiors and lack of maintenance make daily travel uncomfortable.“We were hopeful that Indian Railways would modernize these trains, but they continue to run in the same old condition,” he said.

When contacted, a railway official acknowledged the complaints but said that passengers must also take responsibility for maintaining cleanliness and preventing damage.“Many seats are cut, and side panels are defaced because passengers inscribe names and messages on them. Even if the trains are renovated, their condition will again deteriorate within a few months unless travelers change their behavior,” the official said. (KNT)

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