Reasi (Jammu and Kashmir), June 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the Chenab and Anji Bridges, calling them not just feats of engineering but “living symbols of India’s strength” and “roaring declarations of a bright future.” These monumental railway structures are part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project that now directly connects the Kashmir Valley to India’s national railway network.
Addressing a massive gathering in Reasi, PM Modi said,
“Today’s event is a celebration of unity and willpower. With the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi, Kashmir has been connected to India’s railway network — turning the dream of ‘Kashmir to Kanyakumari’ into reality.”
PM Modi highlighted that the USBRL project, which faced significant technical and geographical challenges, is a symbol of new strength for both Jammu and Kashmir and India. He remarked that many past governments left the project incomplete, and proudly stated,
“All the good work is indeed left for me to complete.”
The Prime Minister also flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains from Katra Railway Station, reducing travel time between Katra and Srinagar from over 6 hours to just around 3 hours. These high-speed trains are specially built for cold climatic conditions and are expected to boost tourism, ease of travel, and economic growth in the region.
Modi also inaugurated several development initiatives worth ₹46,000 crore, including the foundation stone of a new medical college.
Discussing the engineering marvels, Modi emphasized:
“The Chenab Railway Bridge is taller than the Eiffel Tower, and the Anji Bridge is India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge. These are not just made of steel and cement; they embody India’s ambition, determination, and excellence.”
The Chenab bridge, which is the world’s highest railway arch bridge, is expected to become a tourist attraction, boosting the local economy.
“These structures will not only connect people but also connect the economy, employment, and opportunity,” Modi added, praising the engineers and workers behind the massive achievement.
The USBRL project, costing around 43,780 crore, spans 272 km and includes 36 tunnels and 943 bridges. It is aimed at providing all-weather, seamless connectivity to Jammu and Kashmir, enhancing regional mobility and socio-economic integration.