PASSAGE TO PARADISE: USBRL USHERS IN NEW DAWN IN RLY CONNECTIVITY

VISION OF THE INDIAN GOVERNMENT

Indian Railways will commence train services on this significant segment, marking a major step forward in enhancing connectivity to the Kashmir Valley. The move was driven by the vision of the Indian Government that significant economic development would occur upon completion of the project. It will also provide a reliable and hassle-free communication. The all-weather, comfortable, convenient and cost-effective mass transportation system would definitely form the catalyst for the overall socio-economic development of the northern most alpine region of the country.

USBRL PROJECT- THE HIGHLIGHTS

The entire USRBL project (272 km), sanctioned in 1994-95, is sub-divided into four legs for focused execution, of which three had been completed by 2014. There will be seven stations in this section with four in Reasi district and three in Ramban. Another crucial facet of the USBRL project's socio-economic development efforts has been the construction of over 215 km of approach roads, which include construction of 320 small bridges. The USBRL project also includes the world's highest railway bridge, the Chenab Bridge over the Chenab River.

Declared as a "National Project" in March, 2002, the USBRL project encompasses several engineering marvels, including the construction of 38 tunnels and multiple bridges. In view of the importance of USBRL project in providing seamless and hassle-free connectivity, and other importance in terms of defence, tourism and overall economy, the project was declared as “National Project”.

Though the railway lines under USBRL Project are not fully operational, trial runs have successfully being conducted.

MOVING FORWARD

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, on 20 February 2024 virtually flagged off two electrified trains from Jammu—one from Srinagar to Sangaldan and the other from Sangaldan to Srinagar. Simultaneously, he inaugurated the 48.1-km-long Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangaldan section. Prime Minister Modi said, “The dream of connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari by rail has also moved forward today with the commissioning of the (48.1-km) section between Baramulla and Sangaldan. The day is not far when people will be able to travel across the country by taking a train from Kashmir. Today such a big campaign for electrification of the railways is going on in the entire country, and this region has got a big benefit from it.”

THE GAME CHANGER

The 70 km trackwork under USBRL project assigned by IRCON and KRCL to the Rahee Group for design, supply and installation of track works in tunnels, bridges, embankments and formations will be completed shortly. it exhibits as a shining example of innovation, commitment, and engineering excellence, especially in challenging terrains, marked by snowfalls, occasional landslides, geological surprises and the young Himalayas' ever-changing landscape.

The usage of Pandrol booted block fastening technology from Spain ensures the stability and durability of the tracks, representing a new benchmark in railway infrastructure in India.

Being a significant contributor to the USBRL Project, we have played a crucial role in enhancing connectivity and economic development in this region. The completion of the USBRL project would allow direct train travelling to Kashmir from Udhampur, bridging a crucial gap in the region's transportation network.

This accomplishment of Indian Railways, eventually, will not only take you to the top of India, but on top of the world. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, once completed, promises to be a game-changer for Jammu and Kashmir.

It's not just a railway project; it's a symbol of technological advancement, national integration, and the indomitable spirit of overcoming geographical and engineering challenges.