The newly constructed 17-kilometre Katra-Reasi section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail (USBRL) project has received the nod from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) for train operations. This milestone marks a significant step in the integration of Jammu and Kashmir’s railway network.
The CRS has approved train movement between Shri Vaishno Devi Dham Katra and Reasi at a speed of 85 km/h, with loop line operations authorised at a speed of 15 km/h. According to a senior Railway Ministry official, preparations are underway to operate Vande Bharat, DEMU, and MEMU trains between Jammu and Srinagar.
“The final CRS report has cleared the way to run a train between Jammu and Srinagar soon,” the official stated, adding that the Vande Bharat train designed for this route will have the capability to operate in extreme temperatures as low as -20°C.
The USBRL project, also referred to as the “Kashmir Line,” was first approved in the 1994-95 period. The initiative aims to connect Jammu to the Kashmir Valley, overcoming significant geographical and geological challenges.
The first three phases of the project were completed by 2014, enabling train operations between Baramulla and Banihal in the Kashmir Valley, as well as between Jammu, Udhampur, and Katra in the Jammu region.
However, the 111-kilometer Banihal-Katra section remained a formidable challenge due to its demanding terrain. This section, now nearing completion, includes several engineering marvels.
The journey toward operationalising the Banihal-Katra section has been gradual:
- In February 2024, a 48-kilometer stretch between Banihal and Sangaldan was inaugurated.
- On July 1, 2024, the CRS approved the 46-kilometer Sangaldan-Reasi section.
- The latest approval for the 17-kilometer Katra-Reasi section brings the project closer to its culmination.
- The Banihal-Katra section features 97 kilometers of tunnels and 7 kilometers of bridges, including the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge. At 359 meters, this arch bridge is the world’s highest, earning praise as a testament to engineering excellence.
“Constructing the foundation of the Chenab Bridge was the toughest challenge. It was achieved using the rock bolting method, requiring 30,000 tonnes of steel,” the Railway Ministry stated.
Additionally, the section includes India’s first cable-stayed bridge on the Anji River and other notable bridges such as the Reasi and Bakkal Bridges.
The project includes the 12.77-kilometer T50 tunnel, the longest in the USBRL project. To ensure operational safety, cameras have been installed at 50-meter intervals within the tunnels. Furthermore, 215 kilometers of roads have been constructed to provide access to project sites, enabling efficient monitoring and construction efforts.
The CRS has approved the operation of an eight-coach Jammu-Kashmir Vande Bharat train, which is tailored for the region’s harsh winters. This development is set to enhance connectivity and improve transportation for residents and tourists alike.
With the completion of this critical section, the dream of seamless train travel between Jammu and Srinagar is on the verge of becoming a reality, promising to transform the socio-economic landscape of the region.
