World’s Highest Chenab Bridge Opened by PM Modi: Vande Bharat Boosts Kashmir
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Chenab Railway Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district, marking a monumental step in connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India.
Jammu: This engineering marvel, part of the 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, marks a historic milestone in connecting the Kashmir Valley with mainland India. During the ceremony, Modi also flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains, linking Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar, reducing travel time to approximately three hours. The ₹43,780 crore project, celebrated as a transformative gift to Kashmir, promises to enhance tourism, trade, and accessibility while showcasing India’s infrastructure prowess. The event, attended by Union Ministers and local leaders, heralds a new era of integration and economic growth for the region.
A Feat of Engineering
The Chenab Railway Bridge, spanning 1.3 km, is a marvel of modern engineering, designed to withstand extreme weather, earthquakes, and winds of up to 260 kmph. Constructed by Indian Railways at a cost of ₹1,486 crore, it surpasses the Eiffel Tower in height and is a critical component of the USBRL project, which aims to provide all-weather rail connectivity to Kashmir. The bridge’s strategic location in the challenging Himalayan terrain required innovative construction techniques, including a 467-meter central arch. Its completion, after years of delays due to technical and environmental challenges, symbolizes India’s commitment to overcoming geographical barriers. The bridge not only facilitates passenger travel but also ensures year-round supply chains, crucial for Kashmir’s economy, especially during harsh winters when road access is often disrupted.
#WATCH | J&K: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Anji bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, CM Omar Abdullah and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also present. #KashmirOnTrack
— ANI (@ANI) June 6, 2025
(Video: DD) pic.twitter.com/vMsBaMMNBb
Vande Bharat’s Impact
These semi-high-speed trains, customized for the region’s sub-zero temperatures, offer a comfortable and efficient alternative to road travel, cutting the journey time from over six hours to three. With fares starting at ₹1,500, the trains are expected to boost tourism to destinations like Srinagar and the Vaishno Devi shrine, while facilitating business and cultural exchanges. The initiative aligns with the government’s vision of integrating Kashmir more closely with India, fostering economic opportunities and strengthening social ties. Local residents and traders have expressed optimism, anticipating increased footfall and job creation in the region.
