Jammu & Kashmir, June 6 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated several landmark railway projects in Jammu and Kashmir, including the world’s highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River and India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge at Anji. He also flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains from Katra, significantly enhancing connectivity between Jammu and the Kashmir Valley.
Speaking at a public gathering, PM Modi described the projects as “living symbols of India’s strength” and a reflection of the country’s engineering excellence. “These are not just structures of steel and cement, but testaments to India’s bold ambitions and bright future,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL), calling it a milestone in India’s infrastructure journey. “With this, the Kashmir Valley has been connected to the national rail network. The vision of India from ‘Kashmir to Kanyakumari’ is now a rail reality,” he stated.
Modi took pride in the project’s completion during his government’s tenure, referencing former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah’s long-standing hopes for rail connectivity in the region. He also laid the foundation stone for a new medical college in Jammu and announced ongoing development projects worth ₹46,000 crore in the Union Territory.
Acknowledging the challenges of the USBRL project, Modi praised the engineering efforts behind the Sonmarg tunnel and the Chenab and Anji bridges. “These projects are proof of our commitment to building all-weather infrastructure in even the most difficult terrains,” he said.
The Chenab Rail Bridge, standing taller than the Eiffel Tower, was hailed as a future tourist attraction. The Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, was also lauded as a marvel of modern engineering.
“These iconic structures will not only boost connectivity but also open up new economic opportunities and promote tourism in the region,” the Prime Minister concluded.
