On June 6, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express, marking a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development.
This event will also include the unveiling of the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River in Reasi district, a testament to India’s engineering prowess. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, spanning 272 kilometers, aims to provide all-weather connectivity to the Kashmir Valley. The completion of the Katra-Sangaldan section, covering 63 kilometers, is the final phase of this ambitious project. This section includes the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, and Tunnel T-50, the country’s longest transportation tunnel at 12.775 kilometers.
The introduction of the Vande Bharat Express trains on this route will enhance regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and promote tourism and economic activities in the region. The trains will initially operate between Katra and Srinagar, with plans to extend services to Jammu upon completion of ongoing infrastructure upgrades at the Jammu Railway Yard. The USBRL project, initiated in 1983 and declared a national project in 2002, has faced numerous challenges due to the region’s difficult terrain and security concerns. However, the successful completion of the Katra-Sangaldan section underscores the commitment to integrating the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country through sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions.
The inauguration of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat Express and the Chenab Rail Bridge on June 6 will not only enhance connectivity but also symbolize the unity and progress of the nation. These developments align with the broader vision of creating zero-net carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable cities, fostering sustainable urban growth and regional integration.
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