Key Points

The Chenab Bridge represents a remarkable engineering achievement in India's railway infrastructure. Designed to withstand extreme weather and seismic conditions, the bridge uses an unprecedented amount of steel and innovative construction techniques. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw praised its complex design and strategic importance for connecting Jammu and Srinagar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Vande Bharat train service, highlighting this significant transportation milestone.

Key Points: Chenab Bridge Marvel Vaishnaw Hails World's Highest Railway Arch

  • Chenab Bridge uses 30,000 tonnes of steel and can resist 260 km/hr winds
  • PM Modi to flag off Vande Bharat trains connecting Katra and Srinagar
  • 111-km rail section includes 97 km of tunnels
  • Unique cable bridge design marks railway infrastructure milestone
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Chenab Bridge an engineering marvel: Ashwini Vaishnaw

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlights Chenab Bridge's extraordinary engineering feat, designed to withstand extreme wind and seismic conditions.

Chenab Bridge an engineering marvel: Ashwini Vaishnaw
"Its design is very complicated and its foundation is equal to half a football field - Ashwini Vaishnaw"

New Delhi, June 5

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday described the Chenab Bridge built on the Jammu and Srinagar railway line as an engineering marvel, saying that it has been designed to tackle winds up to 260 kilometres per hour and falls in Seismic Zone 5.

Talking to reporters about the unique features of the bridge, the Union Minister said its design is very complicated and its foundation is equal to half a football field.

About 30,000 tonnes of steel have been used to build this bridge, which is now touted as the world's highest railway arch bridge.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to flag off two Vande Bharat trains at Katra town on Friday. The PM will visit Chenab and Anji bridges -- two engineering marvels on the rail link between Katra and Srinagar, before inaugurating the Vande Bharat train service.

“Anji Bridge is also very important. There are many cable bridges on highways, but for the first time, a cable bridge has been built in the railways,” said Vaishnaw.

He further stated that a large number of tunnels have been built on the Jammu-Srinagar railway line. The 111-km section from Katra to Banihal has tunnels spanning 97 km.

The Railways Minister further said work is also underway on a plan to build four terminals on the Jammu-Srinagar rail line, so that goods can be carried easily. Jammu station will serve as a transit station for passengers going to Srinagar.

At present, work is going on platforms number 5 and 6 at Jammu station, due to which the Vande Bharat Express going to Srinagar will run between Katra and Srinagar for now. The work at Jammu station will be completed in September, after which Vande Bharat will be operated directly from Jammu to Srinagar.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is truly a proud moment for Indian engineering! 🇮🇳 The Chenab Bridge shows what we can achieve when we combine vision with technical expertise. Can't wait to see PM Modi inaugurate it tomorrow. Jai Hind!
P
Priya M.
While I appreciate the engineering feat, I hope the government is equally focused on safety measures. The region is prone to earthquakes and extreme weather. Regular maintenance will be crucial for such an important infrastructure project.
A
Amit S.
Amazing! 30,000 tonnes of steel and designed for 260 kmph winds - these numbers are mind-blowing. This will boost tourism in J&K big time. Kashmir valley will become more accessible to common Indians now. 🚄
S
Sunita R.
The railway connectivity in J&K is finally getting the attention it deserves. My father served in the army there and always talked about how difficult travel was. This bridge is not just steel and concrete - it's a lifeline for the people of Kashmir.
V
Vikram J.
Hope the Vande Bharat trains maintain their schedule better than other trains in the region. The terrain is challenging, but if anyone can pull this off, it's Indian Railways. Fingers crossed!
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Neha P.
The economic benefits will be huge - easier movement of goods, more tourism, better connectivity. But I hope local Kashmiri businesses benefit too, not just big corporations from outside. Development should be inclusive.

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