Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir on June 6, 2024. Recognised as the world’s highest railway arch bridge, this engineering marvel is not just a significant milestone in Indian infrastructure but also a symbol of national integration and strategic strength.
Union Minister for the Department of Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, confirmed the inauguration on June 3. He posted on X, formerly Twitter, stating: “History in the making... Just 3 days to go! The mighty Chenab Bridge, the world's highest railway bridge, stands tall in Jammu and Kashmir. Part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL). Built to withstand nature's toughest tests. PM Modi to inaugurate the #ChenabBridge on 6th June, 2025. A proud symbol of New India's strength and vision!”
A Landmark Event for Jammu and Kashmir
Located in the Reasi district, the Chenab Bridge towers 359 metres above the Chenab River, making it taller than the Eiffel Tower. It is a crucial part of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which aims to connect the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India through a 272-kilometre railway line.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will also flag off the Vande Bharat train service from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, marking the operationalisation of a continuous rail link from the northernmost to the southernmost parts of India.
Engineering Feat in the Heart of the Himalayas
The Chenab Bridge is a true feat of modern engineering. Built in a region known for seismic activity, landslides, and extreme weather, the bridge has been designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 266 km/h and temperatures ranging from -20°C to 45°C.
The main steel arch was constructed using an advanced cable crane system, with every segment lifted and bolted into place at a dizzying height. The bridge spans 1,315 metres and required over 28,000 tonnes of steel and more than 66,000 cubic metres of concrete. The materials and design have been developed in consultation with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), making it blast-resistant and ideal for strategic movement.
Part of the USBRL Mega Project
The Chenab Bridge is one of the most critical components of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), which was declared a national project in 2002 due to its strategic and economic significance. The project is designed to ensure round-the-year railway access to the Kashmir Valley, which has historically been dependent on road transport—often disrupted during winter months due to heavy snowfall and landslides.
The USBRL is expected to transform travel across the region and enhance connectivity to remote areas that were previously cut off for months.
Strategic and National Importance
The bridge plays a pivotal role in India’s strategic infrastructure. With the ability to support heavy artillery transport, the bridge enables rapid deployment of defence equipment and personnel to border regions, especially important in light of heightened tensions and recent security threats, including the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
It also sends a strong message of unity and integration, connecting Jammu and Kashmir more deeply to the rest of India both symbolically and practically.
Economic and Social Transformation for the Region
The bridge and the broader USBRL project are expected to act as a catalyst for economic development in Jammu and Kashmir. With improved transport links:
- Tourism is likely to surge, as easier and more reliable access attracts visitors to explore the scenic beauty of the region.
- Local farmers and traders will benefit from faster transportation of goods like apples, walnuts, and saffron to major markets, reducing wastage and increasing profit margins.
- Job opportunities will increase through operations, maintenance, and logistics support related to the rail infrastructure.
- Access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and emergency supplies will improve, especially for people in remote areas of the Valley.
The inauguration of the Chenab Bridge is more than just the launch of a mega infrastructure project. It marks a turning point in Kashmir’s journey towards greater economic growth, improved connectivity, and enhanced national integration.
With the Chenab Bridge set to open on June 6, travellers, engineers, and railway enthusiasts alike will witness a historic moment—one that combines innovation, resilience, and vision.
(With inputs from agencies)
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