PM Modi Inspects World’s Highest Chenab Railway Bridge In Jammu And Kashmir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inspected the Chenab Railway Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, constructed over the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district.

Following the inspection, the Prime Minister met with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Union MoS Jitendra Singh.

PM Modi also interacted with the workers who contributed to the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.

Later today, Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the Chenab Bridge along with multiple railway projects in the region.

As part of the event, PM Modi will flag off the Vande Bharat Express on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) from Katra to Srinagar.

The 272-km-long project, built at a cost of Rs 43,780 crore, features 36 tunnels covering 119 km and 943 bridges.

The Chenab Rail Bridge, an engineering marvel, stands 359 meters above the river and stretches 1,315 meters.

Designed to endure seismic activity and high winds, it is likely to significantly improve connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar.

With the Vande Bharat Express running on this route, travel time between Katra and Srinagar will be cut down by 2–3 hours, reducing the journey to around three hours.

Another highlight is the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, constructed to operate in the region’s tough terrain.

The Prime Minister will also dedicate the entire 272-km USBRL project to the nation.

Built at a cost of Rs 43,780 crore, the project includes 36 tunnels (spanning 119 km) and 943 bridges. It promises:

• Year-round, seamless rail connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of India,
• Aimed at transforming mobility and boosting regional development

Additionally, the PM will flag off two Vande Bharat Express trains operating between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar. These trains will offer a fast and comfortable travel option for locals, tourists, and pilgrims.

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