Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw showcased the progress of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project by sharing a video of the Anji Khad Bridge trial run on social media platform X. The Ministry of Railways confirmed, “The trial run on the Anji Khad Bridge, a key part of the USBRL project, has been successfully completed.”
An Engineering Marvel
Completed in November, the Anji Khad Bridge is an architectural wonder. It features a single pylon towering 331 meters above the riverbed, secured by 48 cables. The bridge spans 473.25 meters, with a 120-meter viaduct and a 94.25-meter embankment.
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It ranks as India’s second-highest railway bridge, after the Chenab Bridge, which holds the world record at 359 meters above the riverbed.
Boosting Regional Connectivity
Both bridges are part of the ambitious USBRL project, aimed at transforming connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. The project stretches 272 kilometres, with 255 kilometres already completed. Officials stated that the remaining section between Katra and Reasi is on schedule for completion by December 2024.
Vande Bharat Train To Connect Kashmir
Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh announced in November that the Vande Bharat train linking Kashmir to New Delhi is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January. This marks a significant step in integrating the region with the rest of India.
The USBRL project represents a leap forward in infrastructure and regional development, bringing Kashmir closer to the heart of the nation.