In a major development for transportation in Jammu and Kashmir, the direct train service between Delhi and Kashmir is set to begin in January 2025. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which has been under development for years, is almost complete, with only a few tasks left to finish by December this year, officials announced on Tuesday.
Key Progress on the USBRL Project
Officials shared that significant progress has been made in the construction of the railway line. The track between Sangaldan and Reasi has been fully completed, and the Director of Safety from Railways has already conducted an inspection. Work on the section between Reasi and Katra is also moving ahead smoothly.
Initially, there were plans to run trains between Sangaldan and Reasi. However, the plan has been revised, and it has now been decided that trains will operate simultaneously over the entire 63 km stretch from Sangaldan to Katra. Tunnel T-33, a crucial part of the project, is expected to be finished by December, and work on the four stations along the 17 km stretch between Reasi and Katra will also be wrapped up by the end of this year.
Prime Minister’s Inauguration in January
The New Delhi-Baramulla railway line is expected to be dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 26, 2025. Union Minister of State for Railways, Ravneet Singh Bittu, expressed confidence that the testing on the Katra-Kashmir track would conclude by December, ensuring the rail connection to Kashmir is ready by January. He also emphasized the project’s potential to boost the region’s economy.
Bittu pointed out that an efficient transportation system, including both highways and railways, is crucial for global competition. He added that safety remains a top priority, with every aspect of the project being thoroughly checked to ensure its timely completion.
Engineering Marvels of the USBRL Project
The USBRL project is a monumental achievement in Indian railway engineering. It includes the construction of 38 tunnels spanning 119 km, with Tunnel T-49 standing out as the country’s longest transportation tunnel at 12.75 km. Additionally, the project features 927 bridges, covering a combined length of 13 km, including the iconic Chenab Bridge. This steel-and-concrete bridge, which stands 359 meters above the riverbed, is the world’s highest arch railway bridge, surpassing the height of the Eiffel Tower. Designed to withstand extreme conditions, including high winds and earthquakes, the bridge represents a significant engineering feat.
Milestones in the Kashmir Rail Project
Over the years, the Kashmir Rail Project has reached several key milestones. The Baramulla-Qazigund section was completed in 2009, followed by the Qazigund-Banihal section in 2013, Udhampur-Katrain in 2014, and the Banihal-Sangaldan service, which was inaugurated by PM Modi in February 2024. With the completion of the USBRL, the Kashmir valley will finally be connected to the national rail network.
Renovation of Jawahar Tunnel
Meanwhile, another vital infrastructure project, the renovation of the Jawahar Tunnel, is nearing completion. The 2.5 km tunnel, a key part of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, has undergone major rehabilitation work to address issues such as seepage and damage to its infrastructure. Managed by the Border Roads Organization (BRO), the renovation project, which began in July 2023, is expected to finish in 18 months.
Advanced Features of the Renovated Tunnel
The renovated tunnel will feature advanced technology, including jet fans for ventilation, energy-efficient lighting, and a SCADA-based system for real-time monitoring and centralized control. This upgrade will ensure the tunnel meets modern transportation standards, providing a safer and more efficient route for vehicles traveling through the Pir Panjal range. Additionally, the tunnel is expected to become a tourist attraction due to its historical and engineering significance.
With its upgraded infrastructure, the Jawahar Tunnel will continue to serve as a vital link for transportation in Jammu and Kashmir, reinforcing the region’s connectivity and economic growth.
