Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on June 6, 2025, where he will inaugurate the Chenab Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, and launch multiple development projects worth over Rs 46,000 crore in Katra. This visit underscores the Prime Minister's commitment to boosting infrastructure and connectivity in the region, marking a significant step towards integrating the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country.

The Chenab Bridge, an architectural marvel, stands at a height of 359 meters above the Chenab River. This 1,315-meter-long steel arch bridge is engineered to withstand seismic activity and strong winds, ensuring its longevity and safety. A key benefit of the bridge is the enhanced connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. The introduction of Vande Bharat trains on this route will reduce travel time between Katra and Srinagar to approximately three hours, cutting the existing travel time by 2-3 hours.

In addition to the Chenab Bridge, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate the Anji Bridge, India's first cable-stayed rail bridge. This bridge is designed to serve the nation in a challenging terrain, further improving connectivity in the region.

Another significant project to be dedicated to the nation is the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. This 272-km long project, constructed at a cost of around Rs 43,780 crore, includes 36 tunnels (spanning 119 km) and 943 bridges. The USBRL aims to establish all-weather, seamless rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country, thereby transforming regional mobility and driving socio-economic integration.

The launch of these infrastructure projects is expected to provide a major boost to last-mile connectivity, especially in border areas. Furthermore, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Katra, worth over Rs 350 crore. This will be the first medical college in the Reasi district, significantly contributing to the healthcare infrastructure in the region.

The development initiatives are aimed at creating an inclusive and vibrant future for Jammu and Kashmir, fostering economic growth and ensuring that no section of society is left behind. The improved infrastructure is expected to unlock the potential of Jammu & Kashmir and drive unprecedented economic growth in remote areas, marking a new era of development in the region.