Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the long-awaited train service to Kashmir Valley on February 17, fulfilling a dream of over 70 years. The project promises to enhance connectivity and boost local tourism, industries, and education in the region.Key Takeaways
- Inauguration of train service to Kashmir Valley on Feb 17.
- Vande Bharat train marks a significant milestone in railway projects.
- The USBRL features technological advancements, including the tallest railway bridge.
- Enhanced connectivity is expected to boost local economy and tourism.
- Travel time from Delhi to Srinagar will be approximately 13 hours.
Jammu, Feb 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the train service to the Kashmir Valley on February 17, bringing to fruition a dream that has been over 70 years in the making for a rail connection to this remote region.
With this commercial inauguration by PM Modi, the Vande Bharat train will traverse the most ambitious railway venture ever constructed in India, which also features one of the most challenging routes globally.
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project is a testament to engineering excellence, showcasing India’s first cable-stayed Anji Khad Bridge, which boasts a height of 331 meters.
Additionally, the Chenab Railway Bridge stands as the tallest railway bridge worldwide, soaring 359 meters above the riverbed. This structure is recognized as the highest arch bridge on the planet.
The USBRL encompasses more than two dozen tunnels, both large and small, which shorten the travel distance for the Vande Bharat train—a train designed with environmentally friendly technology.
Its air-braking system is tailored for optimal performance in sub-zero conditions.
The train is equipped with fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic plug doors, mobile charging ports, food ordering services, and features a special defrosting mechanism for the driver’s windshield.
During the inauguration of the Sonamarg tunnel, PM Modi assured the residents of Jammu and Kashmir that he would soon realize the dream of connecting the Valley with the rest of the nation via rail.
An all-weather rail connection will eliminate the uncertainties posed by climate impacts on the current Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
This new train service to the Kashmir Valley is expected to enhance tourism, horticulture, industry, and education, while also serving the local populace.
The travel duration from Delhi to Srinagar will be approximately 13 hours.
The current requirement to deboard at Katra railway station will be abolished in August this year, following the completion of upgrades at the Jammu railway station to meet the standards of the advanced Vande Bharat train service.
