In a major boost to India’s railway infrastructure and connectivity in Jammu & Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday officially opened two engineering marvels — the Chenab Railway Arch Bridge, the tallest of its kind globally, and the country’s first cable-stayed Anji Bridge in the Reasi district.
In a symbolic and patriotic moment, PM Modi proudly waved the Tiranga (national flag) atop the Chenab Bridge, celebrating a landmark achievement in India’s infrastructural development.
The historic event saw the presence of Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, among other dignitaries.
Before the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Prime Minister personally inspected the Chenab Bridge, which forms a crucial part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL). He also interacted warmly with the engineers and workers who played a pivotal role in the construction of these monumental bridges.
The Chenab Bridge, which towers 359 meters above the Chenab River, now holds the record for the highest railway arch bridge in the world. It is a key component of the Katra-Sangaldan section and will, for the first time, directly link New Delhi to the Kashmir Valley via rail — a dream long awaited.
Despite the immense challenges posed by mountainous terrain and seismic zones, the USBRL project has overcome incredible odds. With advanced engineering and persistent effort, India now stands proud of a bridge that not only showcases architectural excellence but also symbolizes national unity and progress.
In addition to this, Prime Minister Modi will soon flag off two Vande Bharat trains running between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar, offering ultra-modern, efficient, and comfortable travel options for both residents and pilgrims.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister is also dedicating the entire Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) to the nation. This 272-kilometer long project, built at a cost of approximately ₹43,780 crore, includes 36 tunnels (covering 119 km) and 943 bridges — setting new benchmarks in Indian railway history.
The project aims to provide seamless, all-weather railway connectivity to the Kashmir region, unlocking new opportunities for economic development, tourism, and national integration.