USBRL PROJECT | GM Northern Railways asks project authorities to closely monitor balance works

Jammu, Apr 6: General Manager (GM) Northern Railways Shobhan Chaudhuri has directed Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project authorities to closely monitor all balance works, particularly within the Srinagar-Sangaldan section.

Chaudhuri gave this direction after having a comprehensive review of ongoing projects within the section to assess and ensure that the infrastructure projects aligned with the evolving needs of the region and bolster operational efficiency.

Notably, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his Jammu visit on February 20 this year, had virtually dedicated to the nation new rail line between Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangaldan (48 Km) and the newly electrified Baramulla-Srinagar-Banihal-Sangaldan section (185.66 Km).

He had also flagged off the first electric train in the valley besides train service between Sangaldan and Baramulla stations, stating that all these projects would improve connectivity, ensure environmental sustainability and boost the overall economic development of the region.

Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of Northern Railways stated that GM Chaudhuri recently inspected the Srinagar-Sangaldan section of the USBRL project in J&K.

GM’s inspection encompassed various aspects of railway operations, including passenger train maintenance, infrastructure development, and passenger satisfaction. During the visit, Chaudhuri meticulously inspected the DEMU Passenger Train 04618, from Srinagar to Pampore, focussing on the upkeep and cleanliness of the rake. CAO USBRL S C Gupta and senior officers of Firozpur division, IRCON and KRCL were also present.

Interacting directly with passengers, Chaudhuri sought to understand their expectations from Indian Railways, emphasizing the importance of timely and punctual train services. He undertook a comprehensive review of ongoing projects within the section, including the development of new traffic facilities, goods sheds, and the repair and enhancement of passenger amenities.

“This assessment aimed to ensure that infrastructure projects align with the evolving needs of the region and enhance overall operational efficiency. The visit also entailed an examination of newly opened stations in the Banihal-Sangaldan Section, specifically Khari, Sumber, and Sangaldan,” CPRO stated.

Chaudhuri scrutinized the facilities provided to passengers at these stations, engaging with both passengers and staff to gauge their experiences and address any concerns.

In terms of the USBRL project, the Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangaldan section is significant as it features the usage of Ballast Less Track (BLT) all along the route providing a better riding experience to the passengers. Also, India’s longest transportation tunnel T-50 (12.77 Km) lies in this portion between Khari-Sumber.

The project, particularly its Katra-Banihal section, is being completed under the extremely challenging geological conditions.

Prior to dedication to the nation of new rail line between Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangaldan (48 km) by the Prime Minister on February 20, the Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Railway Board Jaya Varma Sinha too had carried out an intensive inspection of the USBRL project on February 9.

Commencing inspection from Katra to Tunnel No T-33 (old T-1), she had inspected Tunnel T-34 (old T-2) onwards through Anji bridge, Reasi Station, Bakkal Station, Chenab bridge right up to Dugga railway station reviewing track, E&M, S&T and RE works.

“In spite of all types of geological, topographical and meteorological challenges, work on the remaining portion is in full swing. Every day, Indian Railway (IR) is edging closer to connecting Kashmir valley to the rest of the railway network,” she had asserted.