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PM Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Jammu-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express on April 19 from Katra, Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced.
This launch marks the completion of the 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway link project, a significant milestone in Kashmir’s connectivity.
PM Modi To Inspect World’s Highest Railway Bridge
During his visit to Udhampur, PM Modi will inspect the world’s highest railway bridge before flagging off the Vande Bharat Express from Katra.
Currently, the Jammu railway station is under renovation, making Katra the starting point for the new service.
Successful Trial Runs And Safety Approval
Officials confirmed that the rail link project was completed last month.
The train underwent successful trial runs on the Katra-Baramulla route, and the Commissioner of Railway Safety approved the service between Katra and Kashmir in January.
The new Vande Bharat Express will significantly reduce travel time between Jammu and Srinagar.
It will also fulfill a longstanding demand for direct rail connectivity to Kashmir.
Until now, train services in the region were limited to the Sangaldan-Baramulla route and Katra’s links to other parts of the country.
Overcoming Challenges In Railway Projects
Launched in 1997, the ambitious project faced multiple delays due to challenging geological, topographical, and meteorological conditions.
The railway line features 38 tunnels stretching 119 km, including Tunnel T-49, India’s longest transportation tunnel at 12.75 km.
Additionally, the project includes 927 bridges spanning a total of 13 km.
The Chenab Bridge stands as a key highlight of this project.
Measuring 1,315 meters in length with a 467-meter arch span, it soars 359 meters above the riverbed, making it 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower and the highest arch railway bridge in the world.
The Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir boasts unique adaptations to function efficiently in extreme cold.
It includes anti-freezing technology and an advanced heating system to ensure smooth operations even at -20 ° C. A snow removal train will clear the tracks ahead of passenger and freight trains, ensuring year-round connectivity.
Safety Measures For Earthquake-Prone Zones
Since this region falls under Zone-V earthquake vulnerability, the railway project incorporates anti-vibration seismic devices.
These dampers absorb tremors, enhancing safety and maintaining faster travel speeds.
The train features a heated windshield in the driver’s cabin to prevent fogging or freezing, ensuring clear visibility.
Heating elements in the plumbing and bio-toilets prevent water from freezing, guaranteeing uninterrupted essential services.
These innovations will provide a comfortable and safe travel experience for passengers.
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