The Railway Ministry has approved raising the maximum permissible speed of trains to 100 kmph on the 111 kilometre Broad Gauge rail section between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Banihal under the Jammu Division of Northern Railway. The decision follows a review that confirmed compliance with prescribed safety conditions before the speed increase. Previously, the permissible speed had been 85 kmph on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Sangaldan stretch and 75 kmph on the Sangaldan to Banihal stretch. The upgrade is part of ongoing efforts to enhance regional rail capacity and operational performance. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Jammu Uchit Singhal said the increase would strengthen connectivity for Jammu and Kashmir and provide passengers with faster, safer and more comfortable travel facilities. He added that the measure was expected to reduce travel time and to support growth in tourism, trade and economic activity in the region. The Railway emphasised continued commitment to passenger safety and convenience as works proceed. Operational changes and timetables will be adjusted to reflect the higher permissible speed. Separately, the Railway reported that the gauge converted Kailaras Sabalgarh Birpur rail section in Madhya Pradesh was inaugurated virtually by the Railway Minister together with Union and state ministers, and that the Gwalior to Kailaras service has been extended to Birpur. The extension will provide direct rail connectivity between Birpur, Vijaypur and Sabalgarh with Gwalior and is intended to offer more affordable and convenient travel options, particularly for rural and tribal communities. Officials noted the new link is intended to improve access to education, healthcare and employment in the area. Local trade and commercial activity are expected to gain from enhanced passenger and freight movement. The changes are subject to continued inspections and operational reviews before full implementation. Passengers are likely to benefit quickly and regionally.