Modi realises Vajpayee’s J&K vision through the Chenab railway bridge – Firstpost

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on June 6, inaugurated the iconic Chenab Railway Bridge in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir—the world’s highest railway arch bridge, standing taller than France’s Eiffel Tower at approximately 359 metres—and flagged off the Vande Bharat Express from Katra to Srinagar. This historic moment marks a major step in Jammu and Kashmir’s integration with the rest of India—strategically, economically, psychologically, and socially.

As part of the ₹46,000 crore Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, this engineering marvel not only provides all-weather rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley but also stands as a powerful symbol of India’s developmental resolve and national security vision.

Emphasising this transformative achievement, Prime Minister Modi said, “Our Jammu and Kashmir is becoming a hub of tunnels, bridges, and ropeways. The highest tunnel in the world is being built here. The highest railroad bridge in the world is being built here.” He added, “This railway line is not just an infrastructure project but a symbol of India’s commitment to peace, progress, and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. It will transform the region’s economy and open new opportunities for its people.”

End of Isolation

Historically, the Kashmir Valley remained vulnerable to frequent disconnections due to landslides, heavy snowfall, and harsh weather that often rendered the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway unusable. Sanctioned in the mid-1990s and declared a National Project in 2002 under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s vision, the 272-kilometre USBRL traverses some of the most difficult Himalayan terrain, including 36 tunnels and 943 bridges—most notably the world’s highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River. The project was implemented in phases, with key sections like Jammu to Udhampur operational since 2005 and the entire route completed recently.

Now, with the Vande Bharat Express cutting travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to just three hours, the Valley enjoys all-weather, high-speed, and reliable connectivity. At the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi stated, “This rail link is not just infrastructure; it symbolises our commitment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring their progress and integration with the rest of the nation. This historic achievement bridges the physical, economic, and psychological distances that long separated the Valley from India.”

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw called the inauguration a “historic day”, highlighting that this feat was achieved through Prime Minister Modi’s “steely determination”. This project, featuring the world’s highest railway arch bridge, boosts regional connectivity while reinforcing India’s national security.

Boosting Economy, Tourism & Access for All

J&K’s economic lifeline—horticulture, handicrafts, and local manufacturing—stands to gain immensely. The improved railway infrastructure ensures faster, safer, and more cost-effective access to major Indian markets. Perishable produce like apples, which previously suffered losses due to highway blockages and delays, can now be transported swiftly and efficiently, reducing spoilage and cutting logistical costs. This will significantly enhance the profitability and market competitiveness of local farmers and traders. The improved logistics will also bolster industrial development, inviting investment and enabling broader economic diversification. Local artisans and manufacturers stand to benefit from easier distribution and reduced overheads.

Moreover, the improved rail network is expected to catalyse tourism growth, not only by boosting access to popular destinations but also by opening up lesser-known areas for exploration and development. This expansion in connectivity creates new economic opportunities across the region and supports the broader integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the national economy.

Furthermore, the enhanced connectivity is particularly beneficial for students pursuing higher education and patients seeking advanced medical care outside the region. Affordable and dependable travel options will ease their journeys, offering a renewed sense of belonging and opportunity. In turn, this fosters stronger social and cultural integration with the rest of India.

A Strategic and Security Asset

More than a developmental achievement, the railway line — anchored by engineering marvels like the Chenab and Anji Khad bridges — is a crucial pillar of India’s strategic infrastructure. Stretching through geostrategically sensitive terrain and bordering adversarial nations such as Pakistan and China, this line significantly enhances India’s defence preparedness. It enables rapid troop mobilisation, seamless movement of military hardware, and sustained logistics supply to forward areas. Engineered to withstand earthquakes of up to magnitude 8 and high-intensity explosions, the bridge is an essential node in India’s national security architecture. Additionally, anti-sabotage protocols, blast-resistant construction, and CCTV surveillance across tunnels and tracks make this railway line resilient against both natural and human threats.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha noted, “Having 365 days of connectivity with the Valley will be a big advantage for us to face any threat from the neighbouring country.” This strategic connectivity ensures rapid response and operational reach during crises. Furthermore, this improved infrastructure significantly reduces travel risks for security personnel, who previously relied on vulnerable highway routes under intense security protocols.

A Message to the World

The railway’s inauguration is a message to the international community that India remains steadfast in its developmental efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, despite geopolitical challenges. It also honours the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose visionary leadership laid the foundation for this transformative project. Vajpayee had famously said, “The rail link to Kashmir is not just an engineering project but a bridge that will connect the hearts and minds of the people of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India.” The tribute extends to all those who persevered through decades of political and logistical challenges.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah acknowledged the historic achievement, stating, “Even the Britishers dreamt of a railway to Kashmir, but he [Modi] completed what they could not.” This long-awaited dream is not just a developmental victory but a civilisational commitment.

By making travel cheaper and easier, the railway promotes interpersonal exchanges and greater cultural understanding between Kashmir and the rest of India. Increased movement of people will help dispel misconceptions and stereotypes, replacing them with direct human connections and shared aspirations. This is vital in reinforcing a sense of unity and belonging among all citizens.

Conclusion

The completion and inauguration of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) mark a watershed moment in the modern history of Jammu and Kashmir. More than just steel and concrete laid across the mountains, this railway line symbolises the fusion of vision, engineering excellence, national resolve, and inclusive development. It bridges not only the daunting physical terrain of the Himalayas but also long-standing psychological and economic divides. By bringing high-speed, all-weather, and secure connectivity to the Valley, the USBRL transforms Jammu and Kashmir into a seamlessly integrated part of India’s socio-economic and strategic landscape.

From empowering local communities and boosting industries to reinforcing national security and fostering cultural cohesion, the railway is a force multiplier across domains. It stands as a message to the world—that India’s democratic and developmental commitment to its people remains unshaken, even in the face of adversity. As the Vande Bharat now glides through tunnels and over the mighty Chenab, it carries not just passengers but the promise of a new era for Jammu and Kashmir—one of opportunity, dignity, unity, and peace.

Imran Khurshid is a visiting research fellow at the International Centre for Peace Studies, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.