Today marks a momentous occasion for Indian Railways and the nation as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the Anji Khad Bridge, India's first cable-stayed rail bridge, in Jammu and Kashmir. This remarkable feat of engineering is a key component of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, set to enhance connectivity to the Kashmir Valley significantly.
Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has been actively sharing updates and visuals of the Anji Khad Bridge, building anticipation for its inauguration. In a recent post, Vaishnaw shared a captivating video showcasing the bridge's stunning architecture and strategic importance. The video offers a glimpse into the engineering marvel that promises to improve the lives of people in the region.
Spanning 473.25 meters across the Anji River, a tributary of the Chenab, the Anji Khad Bridge stands as a testament to India's engineering prowess. The bridge features a single pylon rising 331 meters above the riverbed, supported by 48 cables that ensure its stability and strength. Its design has been meticulously crafted to withstand the region's challenging terrain and seismic activity, ensuring long-term safety and durability. IIT Roorkee conducted detailed studies on site-specific earthquake parameters for the bridge to ensure its resilience.
The USBRL project, of which the Anji Khad Bridge is an integral part, is a massive undertaking aimed at providing all-weather rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley. The project spans 272 kilometers, featuring 36 tunnels and 943 bridges, traversing through the rugged Himalayan terrain. With 255 kilometers already completed, the USBRL project is nearing completion, promising to reduce travel time between Srinagar and Jammu from six hours to 3.5 hours. The entire project has been built at a cost of ₹43,780 crores INR.
The Anji Khad Bridge incorporates an advanced integrated monitoring system equipped with numerous sensors. These sensors continuously track the structural health and performance of the bridge, providing real-time data to ensure its safety and operational efficiency. This advanced monitoring system is crucial for maintaining the bridge's integrity, especially considering the region's seismic activity.
The inauguration of the Anji Khad Bridge is not just about infrastructure development; it's about connecting people and fostering economic growth. The improved connectivity will boost tourism, trade, and commerce in the region, creating new opportunities for the local population. Furthermore, it will enhance access to essential services, such as healthcare and education, improving the overall quality of life for the residents of the Kashmir Valley.
In addition to the Anji Khad Bridge, Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate the Chenab Railway Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, standing 359 metres above the Chenab River. The Prime Minister is also expected to flag off two Vande Bharat trains connecting Katra to Srinagar, promoting tourism and economic development. These trains are scheduled to begin regular service on June 7, operating six days a week. The Vande Bharat Express is set to glide swiftly between Katra and Srinagar, cutting down travel time and setting a new benchmark in comfort for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The completion of the Anji Khad Bridge and the Chenab Bridge marks the culmination of decades-long efforts to integrate the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country through a robust railway network. These projects showcase the dedication and expertise of Indian engineers and the government's commitment to developing infrastructure in even the most challenging terrains.
As the Prime Minister inaugurates the Anji Khad Bridge today, it symbolizes a new era of connectivity, progress, and prosperity for Jammu and Kashmir, bringing the region closer to the rest of India and opening up new avenues for growth and development.
