Srinagar, June 10 -- National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Monday boarded the newly launched Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express and praised it as a major benefit for residents and the tourism sector.

Abdullah, speaking to reporters before boarding, said the semi-high-speed train would ease travel for locals and significantly boost tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.

"This is one of the biggest benefits for us. The train provides a vital alternative to the often-blocked Srinagar-Jammu highway," said the former Chief Minister, citing frequent landslides and soaring airfares as major travel hurdles now mitigated by the rail service.

He also highlighted the positive impact the service would have on the region's horticulture and pilgr...