The long-awaited inauguration of the Vande Bharat train service connecting Katra in Jammu to Baramulla in Kashmir on June 6 marks a transformative milestone in the region’s transport landscape.
This flagship project promises not just to bridge geographical distances but also to foster sustainable economic and social integration across Jammu and Kashmir, signalling a new chapter in Indian Railways’ ambitious connectivity plans. Running daily between the sacred town of Katra, base of the renowned Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, and Baramulla deep in the Kashmir Valley, the Vande Bharat train will revolutionise travel for residents, pilgrims, and tourists alike. It also symbolises the nearing completion of the monumental Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL), a Rs 35,000 crore infrastructure initiative aimed at knitting Kashmir with the Indian heartland by rail. Central to this engineering marvel is the Chenab Railway Bridge, which stands majestically at 1,178 feet above the riverbed — surpassing even the Eiffel Tower in Paris by 35 metres.
With a construction cost of around Rs 14,000 crore, the Chenab Bridge is not only the highest railway bridge in the world but also a testament to India’s technological prowess and determination to overcome formidable natural barriers. The bridge’s cable-stayed design minimises environmental impact, exemplifying a move towards eco-sensitive infrastructure in a fragile mountainous region. The launch of the Vande Bharat train completes a dream that had remained unrealised for over seven decades: seamless rail connectivity stretching from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Beyond mere transportation, this link is poised to catalyse growth in horticulture, agriculture, industry, and education in the Valley, providing a vital economic lifeline and greater comfort for travellers.
The Prime Minister will inaugurate the service with an extensive visit to the region, beginning at Udhampur Defence Airport before inspecting the Chenab Bridge in Reasi district. His itinerary includes interaction with railway engineers and workers at the world’s highest railway bridge and at India’s first cable-stayed bridge over Anji Khad, recognising their efforts in completing this challenging project. The Vande Bharat train’s launch is more than a transport upgrade; it is a symbol of unity, resilience, and India’s aspiration towards sustainable development in its hill states. By reducing reliance on road transport and promoting energy-efficient rail travel, this initiative aligns with the nation’s broader goals of achieving net-zero emissions and creating equitable, accessible infrastructure.
The inauguration also marks the Prime Minister’s first visit to Jammu and Kashmir post Operation Sindoor, underscoring the strategic and symbolic importance of integrating Kashmir’s infrastructure with the rest of the country. The event will culminate in a mass rally at Katra Stadium, highlighting public enthusiasm and regional pride. As India stands on the cusp of completing this landmark rail corridor, the Vande Bharat train is set to redefine travel dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir, fostering sustainable development while honouring the region’s rich cultural heritage. This project reaffirms India’s commitment to building resilient, future-ready infrastructure that benefits all citizens equitably. The rail link’s successful operation will undoubtedly serve as a model for integrating remote and sensitive regions through environmentally responsible engineering, reflecting the ideals of a modern, inclusive, and eco-friendly India.
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