The Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi inaugurated the Chenab Rail Bridge which is the world’s highest railway arch bridge, standing 359 meters above the Chenab River. Spanning 1,315 meters, the steel arch bridge has been designed to withstand earthquakes and high wind conditions, providing all-weather connectivity and significantly reducing travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to approximately 3 hours. This extraordinary feat of engineering marks a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure journey and symbolizes the strength and capability of Indian innovation and determination.
Prime Minister Modi launched several other infrastructure projects worth over USD 5.5 billion on 6 June 2025. These included Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, which further enhances connectivity across the challenging terrain of Jammu & Kashmir. These landmark bridges are part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), a mega infrastructure project of 272 kilometers involving the construction of 36 tunnels and 943 bridges. The project would ensure seamless rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India, promoting greater socio-economic integration and national unity.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Katra, Prime Minister Modi described the bridges as "gateways to prosperity" and emphasized that these engineering marvels are not just infrastructure achievements, but symbols of a new, empowered Jammu & Kashmir. He highlighted that the Valley, once isolated due to harsh terrain and climatic conditions, is now connected to India’s vast railway network—fulfilling a decades-old dream for the people of the region.
The Prime Minister also flagged off Vande Bharat Express trains between Katra and Srinagar, offering modern, high-speed rail travel for citizens, tourists, and pilgrims. Further contributing to infrastructure development, the Prime Minister inaugurated critical road and flyover projects, and laid the foundation for a new medical college in Reasi district—the first in the area—reinforcing healthcare infrastructure in the region.
These initiatives collectively underscore the Government of India's commitment to inclusive development, national connectivity, and regional prosperity. They reflect India’s vision for holistic growth, technological excellence, and unwavering dedication to ensuring every part of the country, especially the border and remote regions, is integrated into the national mainstream.