Prime Minister Narendra Modi today concluded a landmark visit to Jammu and Kashmir, where he inaugurated the iconic Chenab Bridge, heralded as the world’s highest railway arch bridge, and India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, the Anji Bridge. These engineering marvels are crucial components of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, significantly enhancing connectivity to the Kashmir Valley.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi also flagged off new Vande Bharat Express trains at around 12 noon, further boosting rail services in the region. At a public event in Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi, he laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth over ₹46,000 crore.
The inauguration of the Chenab Bridge, soaring 359 meters above the Chenab River, marks a historic milestone in India’s infrastructure development. Its completion amidst challenging terrain underscores India’s commitment to progress and integration in the Union Territory. The Anji Bridge similarly stands as a testament to advanced engineering, designed for stability in the region’s complex geology.
The newly flagged-off Vande Bharat trains are expected to drastically reduce travel time, offering modern amenities and improved connectivity for residents, tourists, and pilgrims alike. The comprehensive package of projects worth over ₹46,000 crore spans various sectors, including healthcare, road infrastructure, and further rail advancements, all aimed at fostering socio-economic growth, boosting tourism, and creating employment opportunities across Jammu and Kashmir.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized that these initiatives will not only improve the lives of the local populace but also solidify Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a vibrant hub of development and connectivity within the nation.
