JAMMU, April 30 -- Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday described the extension of the Vande Bharat Express to Srinagar as a "transformative" and "game-changing" step for the region's economy, mobility, and trade, while making a strong pitch for setting up an inland dry port in the Union Territory.

Terming the direct rail link between Jammu and the Valley as a "day long awaited" by the people of J&K, Omar said the service has ushered in a transformative phase for the region.

"The popularity of the train has forced a capacity upgrade - from eight to 20 coaches - raising the passenger limit from 500 to nearly 1,400 per journey," he said, adding that with two trains now operational, nearly 2,800 passengers will travel...