In a historic milestone for infrastructure development, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is set to receive direct rail connectivity with the rest of India in the coming months, marking the completion of one of the country’s most ambitious engineering projects.
The long-awaited Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project — designed to connect the Kashmir Valley to the Indian Railways network — is now in its final stage of construction.
🔹 The USBRL Project: A Strategic Lifeline
The USBRL, spanning 272 kilometers, is a mega project undertaken by the Indian Railways to establish an all-weather, direct rail link between Kashmir and the rest of India.
Once fully operational, the railway line will connect Srinagar, the summer capital of J&K, to Udhampur, linking it directly with the national railway grid.
“This will be a game-changer for connectivity, trade, and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir,” said an official from the Railway Ministry.
🔹 Key Engineering Highlights
The route includes 38 tunnels (totaling over 119 km) and 931 bridges, traversing rugged Himalayan terrain.
The Chenab Rail Bridge, part of the project, is the world’s highest railway bridge, standing taller than the Eiffel Tower.
The final Banihal–Katra stretch, covering approximately 111 km, is expected to be commissioned soon after successful safety and trial runs.
This section has been the most challenging due to the mountainous terrain, seismic zones, and complex geology.
🔹 Economic and Social Impact
The project will significantly improve mobility, trade, and tourism across the Union Territory.
It is expected to:
Boost local economies by improving market access.
Promote tourism in Kashmir and Vaishno Devi.
Ease movement of essential goods year-round, especially during winter when highways are often blocked by snow.
Once complete, the journey from Delhi to Srinagar will be possible entirely by train, cutting travel time and costs for residents and visitors alike.
🔹 Government’s Push for Integration
The government has termed the rail link as a symbol of national integration and development, reinforcing connectivity in the region post the abrogation of Article 370.
Regular inspection and monitoring by the Railway Board and Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) have ensured the project stays on track after years of delay due to terrain and weather constraints.
🔹 When Will It Be Operational?
Officials expect the Banihal–Katra section to be inaugurated by early 2026, after which direct passenger and freight trains will start operating between Kashmir and major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.
Trial runs have already been successfully conducted on some sections, signaling that the long-awaited completion is finally in sight.
FAQs
1. What is the USBRL project?
The Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project is an Indian Railways initiative to connect Jammu and Kashmir directly with the national rail network.
2. How long is the railway line?
The entire project covers around 272 km, with several tunnels and bridges across the Himalayas.
3. What makes the Chenab Bridge special?
It’s the world’s highest railway bridge, standing 359 meters above the Chenab River, symbolizing India’s engineering excellence.
4. When will the train service to Srinagar start?
Full operations are expected to begin by early 2026, after the Banihal–Katra section is inaugurated.
5. How will this benefit Jammu and Kashmir?
It will boost tourism, reduce travel time, enhance trade, and provide better access to essential goods and services.
Published on : 30th October
Published by : SMITA
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