The Impressive TimesNEW DELHI, June 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated two landmark infrastructure projects in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district — the world’s highest railway arch bridge, the Chenab Railway Bridge, and India’s first cable-stayed Anji Bridge. These historic bridges are key components of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which aims to transform connectivity in the region.
In a symbolic and celebratory gesture, Prime Minister Modi waved the Tiranga, the Indian national flag, and carried it across the deck of the Chenab Bridge, which spans the mighty Chenab River. The event was attended by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, among others.
Before inaugurating the Chenab Railway Bridge, the Prime Minister conducted a detailed inspection of the structure and later held discussions with key dignitaries, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh. He also took time to interact warmly with the engineers and workers who contributed to the USBRL project, acknowledging their dedication and hard work.
The Chenab Railway Bridge is an engineering marvel situated on the Katra-to-Sangaldan section of the USBRL route. Standing at an astonishing height of 359 meters above the riverbed, it holds the distinction of being the highest railway arch bridge in the world. This bridge is set to connect the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India by rail for the first time in history, providing seamless rail connectivity from New Delhi to Kashmir via Katra.
The construction of the Chenab Bridge and the entire USBRL project was a monumental challenge, involving complex engineering due to the region’s rugged terrain and seismic activity. The project includes a total of 36 tunnels, covering 119 kilometers, and 943 bridges, spanning a total route length of 272 kilometers. With an investment of approximately Rs 43,780 crore, the USBRL aims to establish an all-weather, reliable railway link that will significantly enhance mobility and foster socio-economic integration across Jammu and Kashmir.
Alongside the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi also flagged off two Vande Bharat trains that will run between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar. These modern trains promise faster, safer, and more comfortable travel options for residents, tourists, and pilgrims traveling through the region.
The inauguration of these bridges and the launch of the Vande Bharat trains mark a major milestone in India’s infrastructural and technological journey, opening new avenues for economic growth and social connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. The USBRL project’s completion is expected to bring transformative benefits by boosting tourism, trade, and overall development in the region.
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