Jammu and Kashmir are on the cusp of a transformative leap in connectivity, as security measures are being heightened in Reasi in anticipation of the inauguration of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project on April 19.
This momentous occasion will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicate this critical infrastructure development to the nation, fulfilling a decades-long aspiration to connect the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India via a reliable and modern railway network. According to a senior official at the Railway Board, the 272-kilometre stretch of the USBRL project, which includes an impressive 119-kilometre network of tunnels burrowing through challenging Himalayan terrain, represents a key developmental milestone for the region. This extensive rail line is poised to significantly enhance the connectivity needs of the area, fostering economic growth, facilitating smoother transportation for residents, and boosting tourism by making the valley more accessible than ever before.
The official articulated the deep-seated desire for rail connectivity to Kashmir, stating, “It has been the dream of every Indian to have a train running to Kashmir. For this, we have made long preparations, and now this USBRL section is ready.” The sheer scale of the engineering feat involved, particularly the extensive tunnelling work, underscores the commitment and perseverance required to overcome the geographical and geological challenges inherent in this project. Highlighting the strategic importance of the USBRL, the official further added, “There is a 119-km tunnel in this 272-km section. This entire area is very important for Kashmir’s religious, tourism, and connectivity needs.” The improved transportation infrastructure is expected to have a profound impact on the socio-economic fabric of the region, supporting pilgrimage to holy sites, enhancing the appeal of Kashmir as a prime tourist destination, and providing reliable all-weather connectivity for the local population.
The culmination of this long-awaited project will be marked by its official dedication to the country by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 19. The Railway Board official confirmed the schedule, stating, “The Prime Minister is going to dedicate this entire project to the country, this will benefit the people of the country a lot. According to the planning so far, Prime Minister Modi will dedicate this project to the nation on April 19.” This dedication ceremony will signify the formal integration of the Kashmir Valley into the national railway network, a landmark achievement with far-reaching implications. Adding to the significance of the inauguration day, Indian Railways has planned to commence the operation of two Vande Bharat Express trains on April 19 itself. These modern, semi-high-speed trains will provide a significant upgrade in passenger comfort and travel time. One Vande Bharat Express will originate from Srinagar, catering to the needs of the valley’s residents and visitors, while the other will run from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station towards Srinagar, further enhancing connectivity for pilgrims and tourists travelling to the region.
The successful trial run of the first Vande Bharat train on this route, conducted on January 23 from Katra to Srinagar, showcased the train’s capabilities and the readiness of the infrastructure. This trial run was particularly notable as the train traversed the iconic Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, and the awe-inspiring Chenab Bridge, which stands as the highest railway bridge in the world. Furthermore, these Vande Bharat trains have been specifically designed to withstand the cold climate conditions prevalent in the Kashmir valley, ensuring reliable and comfortable operation throughout the year. The inauguration of the USBRL and the commencement of Vande Bharat services mark a new chapter in the connectivity and development of Jammu and Kashmir, promising enhanced opportunities and a more seamless integration with the rest of the nation.
Kashmir Rail Link Set for Landmark Inauguration
