On June 6, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially dedicate to the nation the Chenab Bridge, recognized as the world’s highest railway bridge, located on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL). Alongside this, he will also flag off a special Vande Bharat train service that will operate between Katra and Srinagar, marking a significant milestone in the region’s rail connectivity.
In a recent post on X, PM Modi highlighted that the inauguration of infrastructure projects worth approximately $5.5 billion will profoundly benefit the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He praised the Chenab Bridge not only as an architectural marvel but also for its role in enhancing connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. Another engineering feat under the USBRL project is the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, constructed in challenging terrain.
The USBRL project ensures all-weather rail connectivity, a vital development for the region. The newly introduced Vande Bharat trains running from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar are expected to boost spiritual tourism and generate new livelihood opportunities for locals.
Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister also expressed excitement, calling the inauguration a landmark event that will finally connect the valley with the rest of the country by rail.
The full USBRL route spans 272 km and is being constructed at an estimated cost of approximately $5.2 billion. This route includes 36 tunnels and 943 bridges of varying sizes. The Chenab Bridge itself is a spectacular railway arch bridge constructed over the Chenab River and stands as one of the project’s key engineering accomplishments.
The Anji Khad Bridge, another highlight of the project, is India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, showcasing Indian Railways’ engineering prowess.
Two new Vande Bharat trains—numbers 26401 and 26402—will run six days a week, except Tuesdays, between Srinagar and Katra with a scheduled stop at Banihal. These trains have been specially designed to withstand the region’s tough weather, featuring heated windscreens, advanced heating systems, and thermally insulated restrooms.
The USBRL project is set to significantly cut travel time between Katra and Srinagar, boosting connectivity, economic development, and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
