Srinagar, Oct. 14 -- Rakshanda Gul

For centuries, the Kashmiris had prayed for a day when their valley would be directly linked to the rest of India by rail, a connection that would bridge distance and also hearts. What was once an apparently distant dream has now become a proud reality. As Kashmiris, we used to say, "We dreamt of the day when Kashmir would be connected to Delhi by train," and now we experience it. The whistling of trains resonating in the valley is a strong metaphor for progress, oneness, and inclusiveness.

The journey from dream to reality was not smooth. Constructing railway lines over the Himalayas was one of India's toughest engineering tasks. Harshest winters, landslides, and uncharted terrain tried the patience a...