On June 6, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the Chenab Rail Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, marking the completion of one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure projects—the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). The bridge is now officially recognized as the world’s highest railway arch bridge, rising 359 meters above the riverbed of the Chenab River—taller than the Eiffel Tower.
The completion of the bridge brings the dream of all-weather rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley a step closer to reality.
Project Background: USBRL and the Role of Chenab Bridge
The USBRL project was sanctioned in 2002 with the objective of connecting the Kashmir Valley to the Indian railway network. The total length of this railway line is 272 km, spanning rugged Himalayan terrain and requiring advanced engineering interventions such as tunnels, bridges, and viaducts.
The Chenab Rail Bridge, located between Bakkal and Kauri in the Reasi district, is the most challenging and iconic structure of this project.
Engineering Specifications of Chenab Rail Bridge
Feature Description
Type Steel arch bridge
Height 359 meters above riverbed (35 meters taller than Eiffel Tower)
Length 1,315 meters
Arch Span 467 meters
Construction Start 2004 (major works resumed in 2010)
Material Used 28,660 metric tonnes of steel
Wind Resistance Up to 266 km/h
Design Life 120 years
Seismic Zone Designed to withstand Zone V seismic activity
Temperature Range -20°C to +45°C
The structure comprises 17 spans, with the main arch span being the longest. Over 30,000 cubic meters of concrete were used, and the foundation required anchoring into the Himalayan rock strata.
Construction Timeline and Challenges
2004–2008: Initial groundwork and foundation started.
2008–2010: Work halted due to safety and design review concerns.
2010: Project restructured under Konkan Railway Corporation with support from Afcons and DRDO.
2017–2019: Arch construction completed using cable crane technology.
2020–2022: Track installation and deck finishing.
2023–2024: Safety trials, wind tunnel testing, and signaling.
March 2024: Successful train trial over the bridge.
June 6, 2025: Formal inauguration by Prime Minister Modi.
The construction involved over 1,300 workers and 300 engineers, operating in extreme climatic and topographical conditions. Special steel, corrosion-resistant paints, and blast-proof design technologies were used.
Recent Inauguration: June 6, 2025
During the official inauguration ceremony on June 6, PM Modi hailed the project as a “symbol of New India’s strength, resolve, and capability.” The ceremony included:
Unveiling of the bridge plaque at Kauri end.
Flagging off two Vande Bharat Express trains from Katra to Srinagar via the newly completed rail line.
Launch of passenger amenities and development projects under the “Viksit Bharat” initiative.
The newly flagged Vande Bharat Express trains are climate-optimized, with features such as thermal insulation, heated windshields, and anti-snow technologies, enabling round-the-year operations even in harsh winters.
Strategic and Economic Significance
1. All-Weather Connectivity:
For the first time, Kashmir will be connected to mainland India by a reliable railway line, regardless of weather or road conditions.
2. Security and Defense:
The bridge allows for rapid military mobilization in strategic border regions, enhancing national security.
3. Tourism and Economy:
It is expected to boost tourism, facilitate movement of goods, and reduce transport costs significantly for industries in Jammu & Kashmir.
4. Employment and Local Development:
The project generated employment for thousands during construction and is expected to support long-term economic growth in the region.
Safety Features and Innovations
Blast-Proof Design: Engineered with sensors and shields to resist possible sabotage or explosives.
Wind and Earthquake Sensors: Real-time monitoring for seismic and weather disturbances.
Rust-Resistant Steel: Special steel and paint protect against extreme moisture and corrosion.
Remote Monitoring System: Equipped with automatic alerts and maintenance systems.
Future Plans
Full-scale passenger and freight operations are expected to begin by late 2025.
The Indian Railways plans to introduce Vistadome coaches and scenic tourism packages to promote the Chenab Bridge as a landmark destination.
Integration of the Kashmir railway line with national freight corridors is also under review.
The Chenab Rail Bridge stands as a landmark achievement in India’s infrastructure history. Its completion marks a pivotal moment not only for engineering but also for the socioeconomic transformation of Jammu and Kashmir. By bridging geographical barriers, it paves the way for integration, development, and national unity.
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