KATRA, Jan 19: The final trial run on the Katra-Budgam railway track of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) was successfully completed on Sunday. The 18-coach trial train began its journey from Katra railway station at 8 a.m. and has now reached Budgam, marking a significant step in the completion of the ambitious railway project.
The USBRL project, which was completed at a cost of Rs 41,000 crore, spans 326 kilometers, with 111 kilometers of the track running through tunnels. The T-49 tunnel, measuring 12.77 kilometers, is the longest railway tunnel in India. Additionally, the rail link includes some of the world’s most remarkable infrastructure feats, including the Chenab Rail Bridge, which is the highest railway bridge globally at 359 meters above the riverbed.
Indian Railways has also constructed its first cable-stayed bridge over the Anji Khad, standing at 331 meters above the riverbed with a main pylon height of 193 meters.
The USBRL project aims to enhance connectivity and promote economic development in Jammu and Kashmir by boosting sectors such as horticulture, agriculture, tourism, trade, and education. The introduction of the Vande Bharat train between Katra and Baramulla is expected once the inauguration is officially announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The completion of the USBRL, overcoming challenging terrains and weather conditions, stands as a major achievement for Indian Railways.
