By Vivek Dubey
CNBC-TV18.com
Published June 21, 2024
Indian Railways conducted a successful trial run on the world's highest arch railway bridge, Chenab Bridge, paving the way for rail service from Reasi to Baramulla in Kashmir.
Chenab Bridge, spanning 467 meters with a height of 359 meters above the riverbed, stands taller than the Eiffel Tower, making it the world’s highest arch railway bridge.
The trial run covered a 46-km electrified line between Sangaldan and Reasi, featuring state-of-the-art ROCS technology at 25 kV, a first for Indian Railways.
The journey from Sangaldan to Reasi, passing through nine tunnels with a total length of 40.787 km, was historic, marking the first full train crossing of the Chenab Bridge.
Declared a "National Project" in 2002, the 272-km USBRL project integrates the Kashmir valley with India’s rail network, enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.
The Chenab Bridge will foster social integration, cultural exchanges, and economic activities by facilitating easier movement of people and goods, boosting tourism and trade in Jammu and Kashmir.