Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the much-anticipated Chenab Bridge- the World’s highest railway arch today, marking a historic moment in India’s railway infrastructure.
Standing taller than the Eiffel Tower, the bridge is a key component of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway (USBRL) project, designed to enhance connectivity in the region.
During the inauguration, PM Modi emphasised the bridge’s significance, calling it a “monument of engineering excellence” that will integrate Kashmir with India’s broader rail network. He also flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains on newly laid tracks, promising a boost to tourism and local trade.
The Chenab Bridge, spanning 1.3 kilometres over the Chenab River, is the world’s tallest railway arch, built at a staggering height of 359 meters. Engineers overcame immense geographical challenges to complete the structure, which is expected to withstand seismic activity and harsh weather conditions.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, present at the ceremony, hailed the project as a “game-changer for Jammu & Kashmir’s transportation network.” Local residents expressed optimism, seeing the railway expansion as a catalyst for economic development and easier movement across the region.
The launch of the Chenab Bridge reinforces India’s commitment to infrastructure growth, promising new opportunities for tourism, trade, and strategic connectivity in the Himalayan region.
