The Udhampur Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link or the USBRL project has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of its track work, as announced by the Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw. This remarkable infrastructure project, considered one of the most challenging railway developments in post-independence India, is transforming transportation in the challenging Himalayan terrain. Here are all of the other important details that you would need to know about this particular update on the project.
Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Track Work Finished
According to an article that was recently published by News18, the project’s latest achievement includes the successful completion of a ballastless track. This particular track runs through through the 3.2-kilometre Tunnel T-33, situated near the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.
As of now, 200 kilometres of the total 272-kilometre project have been commissioned, with work continuing on the remaining section. The railway line presents extraordinary engineering challenges, with 87 per cent of the Katra-Banihal section traversing through tunnels.
The longest tunnel, T-49, stretches an impressive 12.77 kilometres. It is set to become the country’s lengthiest transportation railway tunnel. The entire USBRL project is estimated to cost upwards of ₹41,000 crores.
Chenab Bridge, The Highest Railway Bridge In The World
Among the project’s most notable achievements is the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River. The iconic Chenab Bridge spans 1,315 metres, with an arch span of 467 metres and a height of 359 metres above the river bed.
In addition to this, India’s first cable-stayed bridge has been constructed over Anji Khad, featuring a bridge deck 331 metres above the river bed. The project has generated employment and constructed over 215 kilometres of approach roads, including 320 small bridges.
The railways implement international-standard ventilation systems, comprehensive firefighting equipment, and carefully planned escape routes in all tunnels. The ministry anticipates inaugurating a Vande Bharat train connecting Kashmir to New Delhi in January 2025, marking a new era of connectivity for the region.
Are you looking forward to travelling on the USBRL? Let us know in the comments section below!
Cover Image Credits: @AshwiniVaishnaw/ X (Formerly, Twitter)
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