Railway Safety Chief Inspects Katra-Reasi Track Ahead of Direct Train Service to Kashmir
Ahead of the highly anticipated direct train service between Delhi and Srinagar, a crucial inspection of the Katra-Reasi rail track in Jammu and Kashmir is underway. The two-day inspection, led by the Commissioner of Railways Safety (CRS), Dinesh Chand Deshwal, focuses on the final preparations for this vital 17-kilometre rail section, which forms an integral part of the Kashmir rail link project. The inspection, which started on January 8, 2025, is critical for ensuring that the track, infrastructure, and safety standards meet the rigorous requirements needed for the upcoming launch of the direct train service to Kashmir.
The new rail link promises to connect Jammu to the Kashmir Valley, offering a convenient and safe travel option for passengers. The CRS’s visit aims to assess the progress of the track’s construction, its safety features, and the readiness of the operational systems. As Deshwal explained, the inspection requires careful attention, as a team of railway officials is involved in examining every detail. He also emphasised that the findings from the inspection will determine when trains can begin operating on the newly completed track. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the direct train service to Kashmir before January 26, making this inspection particularly significant. “A new chapter has been written in the history of Indian Railways,” Deshwal stated, reflecting on the completion of the Kashmir rail link project. The project has introduced some remarkable engineering feats, including the world’s highest rail arch bridge over the Chenab River and India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge over the Anji River, both located in the Reasi district. These structures are symbolic of the technological advancements used in the project and are set to become iconic landmarks in the region.
During his inspection, Deshwal thoroughly examined the track, tunnels, bridges, and station infrastructure, expressing satisfaction with the quality of work done by Northern Railways. He was particularly impressed with the progress on the Katra-Reasi section, which was completed in December 2024. In addition to ensuring the structural integrity of the track, the CRS will also oversee the trial runs, with a special CRS train expected to test the route between Katra and Banihal soon. The Katra-Reasi track forms part of the larger 111-kilometre rail corridor connecting Katra to Banihal. This section is known for its challenging terrain, which includes 27 tunnels and 37 bridges. Among these, the T-49 tunnel, measuring 12.75 kilometres, holds the distinction of being the longest rail tunnel in India. Additionally, the railway line features 927 bridges, including the stunning Chenab bridge, which stands at 359 metres, making it the highest rail arch bridge in the world.
The rail project to Kashmir, which began in 2005, has been a significant achievement for Indian Railways. Over the years, various sections of the track have been completed, including the Qazigund-Baramulla line in 2009, and the Udhampur-Katra section in 2014. The project now nears completion, with the Reasi-Katra section being the final link to connect the region to the rest of the country via rail. This development not only enhances connectivity but also holds great potential for boosting tourism and economic growth in the region. With continued emphasis on safety, infrastructure, and operational readiness, the Kashmir rail link is set to be a game-changer for travel in northern India. As the completion of the Katra-Reasi track signals the final stages of the project, railway officials and engineers are working meticulously to ensure that the trains are ready to operate safely and efficiently.
