📷 Image Credits: NDTV
The Indian Railways recently conducted a successful trial run on the world’s highest railway bridge in Jammu and Kashmir. The newly-constructed Chenab railway bridge, which is located between Sangaldan in Ramban district and Reasi, has been a structural marvel standing 359 metres above the Chenab River. This architectural masterpiece is around 35 metres taller than the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, making it a significant landmark in India’s engineering history.
The trial run of the MEMU train on the Chenab Rail Bridge was a momentous occasion, witnessing the train passing through the magnificent structure surrounded by the picturesque mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw took to social media to share the success of the trial run, celebrating the milestone achievement in connecting different parts of the region.
The completion of the Chenab bridge is part of the Udhampur Srinagar Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project, aimed at enhancing connectivity and trade in the Union Territory. The project, which also includes the Banihal-Sangaldan section and has an estimated cost of Rs 35,000 crore, has been a significant step towards strengthening transportation infrastructure in the region.
The Chenab bridge boasts a length of 1,315 meters and is designed to make the Kashmir valley accessible through the Indian Railway network. It is expected to provide all-weather rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country, reducing travel time significantly and offering a reliable mode of transportation particularly during harsh weather conditions.
Once the USBRL project is completed, it will not only boost industrial and agricultural sectors in Jammu and Kashmir but also facilitate trade by providing efficient transportation of goods to other parts of India. The connectivity established through the Chenab Rail Bridge will play a crucial role in economic development and promoting tourism in the region, marking a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure growth.
The inauguration of the Chenab Rail Bridge by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a testament to India’s commitment to improving connectivity and fostering growth in Jammu and Kashmir. The completion of this engineering marvel signifies a new era of development and progress for the region, opening up avenues for enhanced trade, tourism, and economic opportunities. The Chenab Rail Bridge stands as a symbol of India’s engineering prowess and a gateway to a brighter future for Jammu and Kashmir.
