The long-awaited Srinagar-New Delhi rail link, a monumental infrastructure project spanning over two decades, is set to become a reality. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the final 17-km section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project on January 26, 2025. This section, connecting Reasi to Katra, will complete the 272-km railway line, bringing the much-anticipated Vande Bharat train service between New Delhi and Srinagar to life.
A Historic Achievement for Kashmir
Kashmiri communities have eagerly awaited this milestone, and the completion of the USBRL project has brought widespread joy to the Valley. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw recently took to social media platform X to announce this historic milestone, marking a momentous occasion for the region.
The new rail link promises to be a game-changer for various stakeholders, including local businesses, students, tourists, and non-local workers, as it opens doors to enhanced connectivity and economic growth.
Boost to Kashmir's Tourism Industry
Kashmir, one of India’s most sought-after travel destinations, is poised to benefit immensely from the new rail service. The direct train link will make travel to the Valley more convenient and cost-effective for domestic and international tourists alike. This development is expected to boost tourism, which is a key driver of the region’s economy. The scenic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and iconic attractions like Dal Lake and Gulmarg will now be more accessible than ever.
Engineering Marvels: The USBRL Project
The USBRL project, spanning 383 km, was first approved in 1994-95 and later declared a ‘National Project’ due to its strategic and economic significance. Despite facing numerous challenges, including difficult terrain and extreme weather conditions, the project has achieved a series of engineering milestones:
1. Tunnel T-33 Completion: On December 13, 2024, the 3.2-km-long Tunnel T-33 near the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine was completed. This tunnel connects Katra to Reasi and features advanced ballast-less track installation, underscoring the technological sophistication of the project.
2. Bridge Over Chenab River: The USBRL line also features the world's tallest railway bridge over the Chenab River, a marvel of modern engineering and a symbol of India’s infrastructure prowess.
Key Benefits of the Srinagar-New Delhi Rail Link
1. Seamless Connectivity: The Vande Bharat train service will reduce travel time and improve access between the capital and the Kashmir Valley.
2. Economic Upliftment: Easier transportation will enhance trade opportunities, benefiting local artisans, farmers, and businesses.
3. Tourism Growth: Affordable travel options will attract more tourists, driving economic activity in the hospitality and service sectors.
4. Cultural Integration: Enhanced connectivity fosters greater cultural exchange, bringing the Valley closer to the rest of India.
As the countdown to January 26, 2025, begins, anticipation is building for the inauguration of this historic rail link. With the launch of the Vande Bharat train service, the dream of seamless connectivity to the picturesque Kashmir Valley is set to become a reality, marking a new era of progress and prosperity for the region.
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