On Sunday morning, a trial run of the Katra-Budgam railway track was completed. This track is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). The trial train, which had 18 coaches, started its journey from Katra railway station at 8 a.m. and reached Budgam. This is an important step for the railway project, according to officials.
The USBRL project cost ₹41,000 crore and covers a total distance of 326 kilometers. Out of this, 111 kilometers are in tunnels. The longest tunnel, called T-49, is 12.77 kilometers long, making it the longest railway tunnel in India.
One of the most amazing parts of this project is the Chenab Bridge. This bridge is the highest railway bridge in the world and is located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. The Chenab Bridge is 1,315 meters long and stands 359 meters above the river. It has a special arch design and connects two railway stations, Sangaldan and Reasi.
Indian Railways has also built its first cable-stayed bridge over the Anji Khad river. This bridge is 331 meters high above the riverbed and has a tall pylon that reaches 193 meters. The construction site is surrounded by mountains and faces strong winds, making the work challenging.
The USBRL is considered one of the toughest railway projects ever built. It goes through difficult mountains, rivers, and tough weather. Once the railway is open, it will help improve farming, tourism, trade, and education in the region. It will also make travel easier and cheaper for people in Kashmir.
The Vande Bharat train will run between Katra and Baramulla once the railway is officially opened. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be at the inauguration, but the exact date has not been announced yet. This project is a big step in connecting Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India.
