Built over the Chenab River in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, the Chenab Rail Bridge is considered the world’s highest railway arch bridge. And now, it is all set to be developed into a new tourist destination, with viewing platforms that will let people see the breathtaking Himalayan peaks up close. Here’s everything you need to know about this much-anticipated project.
Chenab Rail Bridge To Get Viewing Decks And A Museum
Standing 1,178 feet above the Chenab River, the Chenab Rail Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir is even taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. It is a massive steel and concrete railway bridge built across a deep mountain valley. It connects the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India by train.
But now, the government is planning something big. According to The Times of India, the Chenab Rail Bridge is all set to become a tourist attraction, with dedicated viewing decks and a museum showcasing insights into its engineering feat and construction challenges.
The viewing decks near the bridge will allow visitors to see the beautiful Chenab River flowing through a deep gorge and, yes, not to forget, the Himalayan peaks. People standing on the tall bridge will also be able to see the beautiful peaks and the surrounding landscape. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also posted a video of the bridge on his Instagram account, calling the project, “Marvellous + Ambitious.”
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Rail Bridge To Attract Students & Infrastructure Enthusiasts
According to The Times of India, the 1,315-metre-long bridge stands 359 metres above the riverbed. Its main arch spans 467 metres. The Chenab Rail Bridge is actually one of the most important components of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line. This line connects remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir to the national railway network.
Reportedly, the viewing decks will give visitors a vantage point to appreciate the scale of the iconic bridge and lose themselves in the beauty of the surrounding mountains. The museum, on the other hand, will have photographs, technical models and digital presentations explaining how the bridge was built. It could attract students and people interested in railway infrastructure.
Also Read: Bihar Gets ₹2,400 Crore Rail Bridge; Adding 2 Lines To Busy Delhi-Howrah Rail Route
What do you think of these plans? Do share your thoughts in the comment section below!
Cover Image Courtesy: Chenab Rail Bridge/Wikipedia, Ministry of Railways
FAQs
Where is the Chenab Rail Bridge?
The Chenab Rail Bridge is located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, India.