Digital News Guru Current Affairs Desk:
Chenab Bridge & Anji Khad Bridge Inaugurated by PM Modi
- Historic Inauguration (June 6, 2025)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally opened the Chenab Railway Bridge—the world’s highest railway arch bridge—alongside the Anji Khad cable-stayed bridge, marking transformative progress in the ambitious Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). - Engineering Marvel
The Chenab Bridge stands at an impressive 359 m above the river, taller than the Eiffel Tower, spans 1.3 km, and is built to withstand earthquakes (magnitude 8) and wind speeds up to 266 km/h.
- Completion of USBRL Project
At an investment of Rs 43,780 crore, the 272 km USBRL line, featuring 36 tunnels and 943 bridges, now fully links Kashmir with India’s national railway network - Boost to Connectivity & Commerce
With the first direct Vande Bharat Express flagged off between Katra and Srinagar, travel time has been slashed from 6–7 hours to about 3 hours—facilitating commerce, tourism, pilgrimage, and year‑round passenger access even in winter
PM Modi’s Statement & Regional Context
- A Vision Fulfilled
Modi described the inauguration as monumental, fulfilling Kashmir’s century‑old aspiration. He also referenced the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year as an assault on “insaaniyat and Kashmiriyat,” reaffirming the government’s commitment to regional development. - Praise from Officials
Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw called the event “a historic day,” credited Modi’s determination, and emphasized the lasting impact on integration, security, and livelihood opportunities
Strategic and Social Impact
Connects Kashmir Seamlessly
For the first time, the Kashmir Valley is directly connected by rail to the Indian plain, eliminating dependence on winter-prone roads and boosting resilience for civilians and security forces .
Economic & Tourism Upside
Reduced travel times combined with increased reliability are expected to drive tourism and stimulate local business activity, while facilitating easier access to pilgrimage destinations like Katra’s Vaishno Devi temple.
Symbol of National Pride
The Chenab Bridge, built over 42 years of planning and construction, symbolizes India’s infrastructure prowess and technical resilience in challenging Himalayan terrain
Engineering & Project Highlights
- Construction Details
The Chenab Bridge utilized 28,660 tonnes of steel, 66,000 m³ of concrete, and features 17 spans plus a 1,315 m arch span between Kauri and Bakkal - Environmental Resilience
Designed for earthquakes (up to magnitude 8), wind speeds up to 266 km/h, and a longevity of over 120 years - Anji Khad Bridge
The country’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, designed to enhance connectivity south of Reasi.
What Happens Now?
- Train Services Begin
Commercial operations for the Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express begin June 7, 2025, with plans for six weekly departures. - Ongoing Infrastructure Integration
As part of the USBRL project, work continues to optimize connectivity, including ensuring seamless integration with existing rail facilities and supporting infrastructure. - Security & Strategic Edge
All-weather rail access enhances government ability to mobilize supplies and personnel, critical for regional stability in the India–Pakistan border context.
Completion of the USBRL Project
The inauguration of these bridges signifies the completion of the Rs 43,780 crore USBRL project, which spans 272 kilometers through challenging Himalayan terrain. The project includes 36 tunnels totaling 119 kilometers and 943 bridges, all designed for long lifespan and safety.
With this development, the Kashmir Valley is now directly connected by rail to the Indian mainland, eliminating dependence on winter-prone roads and boosting resilience for civilians and security forces.
Engineering Feat in the Himalayas
The Chenab Bridge, spanning 1,315 meters, is a testament to modern engineering. Constructed using steel and concrete, the bridge is designed to withstand earthquakes up to magnitude 8 and wind speeds of up to 266 km/h. Its construction involved overcoming significant logistical and environmental challenges, including building on geologically unstable and remote terrain.
Adjacent to the Chenab Bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, was also inaugurated. Spanning 473.25 meters, this bridge connects Katra and Reasi and stands as another significant achievement in the USBRL project.
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