Inauguration of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL)
The completion and inauguration of the 272-kilometre USBRL project mark a significant milestone in India's railway history, connecting Kashmir to the national railway network for the first time.
Key Engineering Marvels
- Chenab Rail Bridge
- Stands 35 meters higher than the Eiffel Tower.
- Highest railway arch bridge in the world at 359 meters above the riverbed.
- Spans 1,315 meters and can withstand wind speeds of up to 260 km/h.
- Built to last 120 years.
- Anji Khad Bridge
- India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
- Towers 331 meters above the riverbed and stretches 725 meters across.
- Anchored by 96 high-tensile cables and constructed using 8,200 metric tonnes of structural steel.
Project Statistics and Details
- Cost: ₹43,780 crore.
- Construction involved drilling through mountains to establish 36 tunnels spanning 119 kilometers.
- 943 bridges were built through ridges and mountain passes.
Impact on the Region
The new rail link ends the geographical isolation of Kashmir, offering hope for economic development.
- The Vande Bharat Express reduces travel time between Srinagar and Katra to three hours.
- Upcoming direct train service between New Delhi and Srinagar is expected to reduce travel time to 13 hours.
Symbolic and Economic Significance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the rail link as "a symbol of a new, empowered J&K". The rail connectivity is anticipated to dismantle psychological barriers and boost the economic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
Context of Political Tensions
The region recently underwent a strain due to the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, leading to a short conflict with Pakistan. India conducted ‘Operation Sindoor’ against terror infrastructure across the border, impacting the ceasefire agreement with Pakistan.