Modi opens world’s tallest rail bridge
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the world's tallest rail bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, marking a historic achievement in the region's infrastructure. The Chenab Rail Bridge, which spans 1,315 meters and stands 359 meters high, surpasses the Eiffel Tower, establishing the first railway link between Indian-administered Kashmir and the rest of India.
During the inauguration ceremony, Modi flagged off India's fastest train, the Vande Bharat Express, which made its inaugural journey across the newly opened bridge after departing from the Reasi railway station. The event also included the unveiling of the Anji Rail Bridge, India's first cable-stayed railway bridge over the Anji River.
The Chenab Rail Bridge is a crucial part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which began in 1983 and has faced numerous challenges due to the rugged Himalayan terrain. The USBRL project encompasses 272 kilometers of railway line, featuring 36 tunnels totaling 119 kilometers and 943 bridges. The completion of this project signifies the first-ever direct rail connection between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India, enhancing accessibility and connectivity.
In conjunction with the bridge's inauguration, Modi also launched the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, a high-speed train service designed to operate in the region's harsh winter conditions. This train is equipped with heated windshields, thermal insulation, and advanced heating systems to ensure passenger comfort.
The inauguration of the Chenab Rail Bridge and the introduction of the Vande Bharat Express are expected to significantly boost economic activity, tourism, and daily commuting in the region. These developments underscore the Indian government's commitment to enhancing connectivity and fostering development in Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for a brighter future for the local population.
