As a noteworthy advancement, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the Chenab and Anji Bridges, flagged off Vande Bharat trains, and dedicated the monumental Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link project to the nation. All these projects will accelerate connectivity, increase economic growth and upgrade infrastructure development in Jammu & Kashmir.
Introduction:
Jammu & Kashmir has achieved a milestone as various projects for infrastructure and rail development were inaugurated. PM Shri Narendra Modi visited the state with growth in his mind—to improve connectivity, enhance infrastructure development and take steps towards new opportunities for the region. Various railway projects were inaugurated and dedicated to the nation, including Chenab bridge, Anji Bridge, flagging of Vande Bharat trains and dedication of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). These projects will reinforce the infrastructure of the state, aims to provide convenient travel, improved connectivity and inclusivity of the people residing in Jammu & Kashmir
Inauguration of the Chenab Rail Bridge – World’s Highest Rail Arch Bridge:
Chenab Rail Bridge, a major engineering milestone, was inaugurated by the Prime Minister. The bridge was built 359 meters above the Chenab River, now making it the highest railway arch bridge. The bridge is 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower making it more magnificent feat.
Image credit: MoR
Key Features:
- Height- 359 meters above riverbed
- Length- 1,315 meters
- Designed to hold out against high seismic and wind loads
- Steel arch design provide the structure strength and resilience
Benefits:
- Accelerate connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar
- Minimise travel time between Katra and Srinagar by 2-3 hours
- Promotes regional tourism and economic activities
- Help in the transportation of goods across rough terrains
The bridge is seen as a symbol of unity and integration, providing the people of the region a connection to other parts of the country. It highlights the infrastructure development and convenient train journeys.
Image Credit: MoIB
Anji Bridge – India’s First Cable-Stayed Railway Bridge:
Following the Chenab Bridge, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, marking another major milestone in the region’s infrastructure journey.
Key Features:
- Height- 331 meters above riverbed
- 96 cable strands with a total cable length of 653 km
- Constructed in a highly challenging hilly terrain
Benefits:
- Allow faster, smoother train journey across challenging terrain
- Accelerate local tourism and cultural exposure
- Connects communities in hard-to-reach areas
An infrastructure milestone, the Anji Bridge will provide smooth operations and flexibility and highlights India’s commitment to engineer robust infrastructure in the challenging terrains.
Dedication of USBRL Project – Transforming Kashmir’s Rail Landscape:
A 272 km long Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project is dedicated to the nation by the Prime Minister. The project worth Rs. 43,780 crore, marvellous initiative to transform Kashmir’s connectivity to the world.
Project Highlights:
- Total length- 272 km
- Number of bridges- 943
- Tunnels- 36 major tunnels spanning 119 km
- Includes Tunnel T-50 – India’s longest operational railway tunnel (12.77 km)
- Twin tube design for main and escape tunnels for safety
Benefits:
- Promote all-weather, seamless connectivity to Kashmir
- Fosters economic and social integration with the rest of India
- Ensure logistics channels for goods and services
- Accelerate tourism, agriculture, handicrafts, and trade
- Link remote, previously inaccessible areas to the national rail grid
The USBRL completion will not only provide efficient passenger and freight movement but also enhance regional development in education, employment, and healthcare.
Flagging Off of Two Vande Bharat Trains:
In another major development, the Prime Minister flagged off two Vande Bharat trains linking Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar, further improving passenger connectivity across J&K.
Routes:
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra ↔ Srinagar
- Srinagar ↔ Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra
Train Features:
- Advanced heating systems suited to cold climates
- Fully AC modern coaches
- Improved onboard comfort and facilities
Benefits:
Minimised travel time and increased frequency of inter-city travel
Greater accessibility for pilgrims and tourists
Employment in tourism, hospitality, and rail operations
Better business opportunities and trade development
The addition of Vande Bharat services will offer top-class rail travel experience to citizens and tourists alike, focussing on Kashmir’s wide tourism and spiritual potential.
Development Beyond Steel and Concrete – Empowering the Region:
Each of these infrastructure marvels —Chenab and Anji Bridges, USBRL, and Vande Bharat trains—is more than just a civil milestone. These initiatives are about delivering dignity, opportunity, and empowerment to the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
By ensuring all-weather, high-speed, and safe transport access to remote areas, these rail projects pave the way for-
- Better access to education and healthcare
- Strengthens trade and market linkages for local artisans and producers
- Cultural exchange and national integration
- Support domestic and international tourism
From engineering design to implementation, these projects have set new records in safety, sustainability, and technology in railway infrastructure.
Conclusion:
Several rail projects are inaugurated in Jammu & Kashmir, aiming to reinforce the cultural and infrastructure development in the region. PM Modi has inaugurated the iconic bridges, Vande Bharat trains and dedicated USBRL to the nation, moving towards infrastructure development. The government has laid the foundation for growth, stability, and integration, accelerating the region’s ties with the rest of India like never before.
Source: PIB – Press Release | Featured Image Credit: MoIB
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