We are aware that the state of Jammu & Kashmir was divided into union territories — Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The government is on the front foot with the construction and development of infrastructure. Among various projects carried out in the region, the USBRL (Udhampur – Srinagar – Baramulla Railway Link) holds a special position as it will work as the connecting link for the Union Territory to the rest of the country. The Ministry of Railway has tweeted about the status of this project including the engineering work of the Anji Khad Bridge.
Work In Progress At Anji Khad Bridge
Anji Khad bridge 🌉: Engineering Wonder in making!
Over 83% work on the bridge under USBRL project has been completed. pic.twitter.com/if5mRYHnPk
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) March 16, 2023
The Anji Khad Bridge is an integral section of the USBRL project as it connects Katra and Reasi. This bridge is the country’s first cable-stayed railway bridge constructed with cutting-edge technologies. Moreover, it is claimed that the bridge can withstand extreme weather conditions. The Ministry of Railway has tweeted that 83 per cent of the bridge work and deck launching of 368 metres is completed. The total cost of Anji Khad Bridge is ₹458 crores.
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Earlier, a proposal for an arch bridge was being considered for the Anji Khad Bridge. But after the former board chairman suggested that the place is not suitable for an arch bridge, the committee decided to go ahead with a cable-stayed bridge — India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge! Built by the Hindustan Construction Company, 86 cables will support this bridge and its length will be 1,300 metres with 473.25 metres being the main section of the bridge.
Udhampur – Srinagar – Baramulla Railway Link
Though the Udhampur – Srinagar – Baramulla Railway Link is one of the important projects, its construction was a difficult process. Several natural challenges like major earthquake zones, inhospitable terrain and extreme temperatures graced the construction site. Nonetheless, the authorities and engineers are working towards making the dream of connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari come true.
Everyone is anxiously waiting for the completion of this entire project! The hilly regions of the Union Territory require better railway infrastructure to boost connectivity and help the region’s economic and tourism growth.
Also Read: 6 Things To Know About India’s Longest Escape Tunnel In Jammu & Kashmir
And who doesn’t want to visit Jammu & Kashmir — the heaven on Earth!
Cover Image Courtesy: @AshwiniVaishnaw/ Twitter