Explained: Chenab Railway Bridge and Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express
Srinagar, Jun 5: Prime Minister NarendraModi will inaugurate the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL), a massive infrastructure project that will connect the Kashmir Valley to India's national railway system, on Friday.
One of the highlights of this project is the Chenab Railway Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world, at an elevated height of 359 meters (1,178 feet) over the Chenab River in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. The ceremony will also witness the unveiling of two Vande Bharat Express trains running between Katra and Srinagar, a remarkable step in regional connectivity. The opening of the USBRL and the Chenab Bridge is a milestone in India's infrastructure development. It not only increases connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of India but also demonstrates India's ability to conquer challenging engineering issues. The launch of the Vande Bharat Express trains also highlights the efforts to modernise rail travel and accelerate regional growth.
Chenab Railway Bridge:
The Chenab Bridge is 1,315 meters long, consisting of a 785-meter deck arch bridge and a 530-meter approach bridge. Its 359-meter deck height is 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower and is the tallest railway bridge in the world. Located in a Zone-V seismic area with fractured geology, the building of the bridge presented challenging tasks. The remote location necessitated creative solutions, ranging from the utilization of helicopters as a material transport mode to opening access roads to the site.
Safety Features: It is fitted with more than 120 sensors and a 780-meter-long platform of blast protection. The bridge is capable of tolerating harsh weather conditions. The bridge can withstand wind speeds of up to 266 km/h and earthquakes measuring 8 on the Richter scale. The lifespan of the bridge is estimated to be 120 years.
Strategic Significance: Apart from its engineering value, the bridge contributes to national security through enhanced logistical capabilities in the country. The bridge is also a symbol of India's technological advancement and promise of regional development.
Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express: Two sets of Vande Bharat Express trains will also start services between Katra and Srinagar, numbered 26401/26402 and 26403/26404. The high-speed trains are likely to cut down travel time considerably, fostering tourism and economic activities in the region.
USBRL Project Overview: The USBRL project, 272 kilometers long, features critical infrastructure like the Chenab and AnjiKhad bridges. Finishing the Katra–Srinagar section is the last milestone for this much-awaited project, started in 1983.
