On 19 January, Indian Railways took it’s vast network to the next level to connect one of the most scenic and challenging regions of the country—Jammu and Kashmir—with the rest of India. The railways successfully completed the trial run of an 18-coach train on the Katra-Budgam railway track. This ambitious rail project will bridge gaps and create opportunities.
Katra-Budgam Track Trial Run Completed Successfully
The trial marks a significant milestone for the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. It involved an 18-coach train that started from Katra railway station in Jammu and reached Budgam station. This trial run is a significant part of the entire USBRL, a crucial railway network that will improve connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of India.
The USBRL is a complex project that spans 326 kilometres and costs around ₹41,000 crore, according to the Swarajya reports. 111 kilometres of this track are built through tunnels, making it truly remarkable. This track also includes India’s longest railway tunnel, the 12.77-kilometre-long T-49 tunnel. This tunnel is definitely an engineering marvel that will make the route accessible through difficult mountainous terrain.
One of the most magnificent parts of the USBRL is the Chenab Bridge, also known as the world’s highest railway bridge. This bridge stands tall at 359 meters above the Chenab River and spans 1,315 meters in total. It connects the towns of Bakkal and Kauri in the Reasi district with a 467-metre-long arch. The bridge will play a part in ensuring a safe passage over the challenging terrain of the region.
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USBRL To Open Doors To A New Kashmir
The USBRL’s cable-stayed bridge across the Anji Khad River is another striking feature of this project. According to Swarajya, With a 193-meter-tall pylon, this bridge is built to handle the river’s seasonal changes and give trains a secure route. The completion of the USBRL will undoubtedly have a huge impact on the region. It will open up new opportunities for economic growth. It will also make it much easier for people in Kashmir to travel to other parts of India and vice versa.
Once fully operational, the USBRL will also have the Vande Bharat train running between Katra and Baramulla per the reports from Swarajya. It will offer modern, high-speed travel, making it easier and more affordable for travellers.
This project is going to be a game-changer for Jammu and Kashmir.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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