PM Modi to inaugurate Chenab Bridge, world’s highest railway bridge, on June 6

By Admin

04 Jun, 2025

The countdown has begun for a historic moment in India’s infrastructure journey. Union Minister for the Department of Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the world’s highest railway bridge, the Chenab Bridge, on June 6, 2025. This landmark event marks a significant milestone for the nation and especially for Jammu and Kashmir, where the bridge stands tall as a symbol of progress and engineering excellence.

The Chenab Bridge: A Marvel of Engineering

The Chenab Bridge is not just any bridge—it is the world’s highest railway arch bridge, towering 359 meters above the Chenab River in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. To put this into perspective, the bridge is higher than the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris. Constructed as part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, this engineering marvel connects the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India by rail for the first time in history.

The bridge forms a critical part of the Katra-to-Sangaldan rail stretch, which will enable direct rail connectivity from New Delhi to Kashmir via Katra, fostering easier travel and stronger economic ties.

Overcoming Challenges: The Spirit of New India

The project faced immense challenges due to the region’s tough terrain, seismic sensitivity, and harsh weather conditions. The area lies in a fault zone, making it prone to earthquakes, which demanded advanced engineering solutions. Despite these hurdles, India’s skilled railway engineers constructed nearly 1,000 bridges and 36 tunnels spanning about 119 kilometers along the 272-kilometer USBRL route.

The Chenab Bridge itself used around 30,000 metric tons of steel, earning it the nickname “fauladi bridge” — a testament to its robust strength and durability. It can withstand winds of over 250 kilometers per hour, ensuring safety amid nature’s toughest tests. The largest foundation of the bridge, called S20, covers an area roughly one-third the size of a football field, underscoring the massive scale of the construction.

Technological Innovation and Safety Measures

The railway line employs advanced technology including a unique overhead electric system using solid metal stanchions for power supply—different from regular wire systems—to ensure reliable and efficient train operation. Additionally, stringent safety protocols are in place due to the seismic sensitivity of the region. Live surveillance systems continuously monitor tunnels, tracks, and bridges, with control rooms at every station ensuring complete security for passengers and freight.

Transformative Impact on Jammu and Kashmir

Beyond its engineering feats, the Chenab Bridge and the USBRL project promise transformative social and economic benefits. The railway construction led to the building of approximately 200 kilometers of roads, providing remote villages with permanent access routes. Earlier, villagers had to walk 20-25 kilometers just to reach the nearest road. These new roads now open up opportunities for trade, healthcare, education, and connectivity, uplifting local communities and integrating them with the rest of the country.

A Symbol of New India’s Vision

Dr. Jitendra Singh aptly described the Chenab Bridge as “history in the making,” symbolizing New India’s strength, vision, and resolve. It reflects India’s commitment to inclusive development by overcoming daunting natural challenges through innovation and determination.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to inaugurate this monumental structure on June 6, 2025, the Chenab Bridge stands as a proud symbol of India’s technological prowess and its unwavering spirit to connect, empower, and develop even the most challenging terrains of the country.