The Impressive TimesNEW DELHI, 06 JUNE : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch a series of transformative infrastructure and development projects worth over ₹46,000 crore during his visit to Katra in Jammu and Kashmir today, June 6. This marks his first visit to the Union Territory since India’s precision air strikes on terror camps in Pakistan under ‘Operation Sindoor’, conducted in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists.
Among the highlights of his visit is the inauguration of the Chenab Bridge — the world’s highest railway arch bridge — and the launch of two Vande Bharat Express trains connecting Katra and Srinagar. This move is set to revolutionize travel in the region and significantly boost connectivity, tourism, and local development.
According to an official statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Modi will begin the day’s events at 11 a.m. with the inauguration of the Chenab Bridge. Following this, he will travel to the Anji Bridge site for its official inauguration before flagging off the Vande Bharat Express trains at around 12 noon. The new semi-high-speed trains will operate along the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), enhancing accessibility to and from the Kashmir Valley.
The Chenab Bridge is being hailed as an engineering marvel. Standing 359 metres above the riverbed — taller than the Eiffel Tower — the 1,315-metre-long steel arch bridge is designed to withstand high seismic activity, strong winds, and extreme weather conditions. The bridge is a vital part of the USBRL project, a 272-km railway line that is considered one of the most challenging and ambitious railway projects in India.
Describing the strategic importance of the Chenab Bridge, the PMO stated, “A key impact of the bridge will be in enhancing connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. With the Vande Bharat train running over it, travel time between Katra and Srinagar will be reduced to just about three hours, saving passengers two to three hours of journey time.”
The launch of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat trains is expected to bring a major boost to both tourism and economic development in the region. With quicker and more comfortable rail access, pilgrims, tourists, and locals will benefit immensely.
The ₹46,000-crore development package also includes a wide array of projects aimed at improving infrastructure, road and rail connectivity, energy access, education, and healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir. The Modi government has emphasized that these initiatives are part of a broader commitment to ensuring holistic development and integration of the region with the rest of the country.
Today’s event is being seen not only as a major milestone for infrastructure development but also as a reaffirmation of the Centre’s focus on peace, progress, and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.
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