"Anji Khad Bridge: India’s First Cable-Stayed Rail Bridge"

The Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, stands as one of the most remarkable engineering achievements of Indian Railways in Jammu and Kashmir. As part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, the bridge is expected to significantly enhance connectivity to the Kashmir Valley, with a recent successful trial run bringing the project closer to its completion.

Here are key highlights of the Anji Khad Bridge:

An Engineering Marvel: The Anji Khad Bridge is a true testament to modern engineering. With a pylon towering 331 meters above the riverbed, the bridge spans a total of 473.25 meters. It is supported by 48 cables that ensure the structure’s stability and strength, making it an iconic feat in the field of infrastructure.

Part of the USBRL Project: The bridge is a critical component of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, which aims to improve rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India, further integrating the region with national infrastructure.

Successful Trial Run: A key milestone in the project was the successful completion of a trial run using a tower wagon on the bridge. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a video of the trial, calling it an “engineering marvel.” The trial brings the project closer to its expected completion date, with rail services anticipated to begin by January 2025.

Advanced Monitoring System: To ensure the long-term safety and durability of the bridge, especially given the region’s seismic activity, the Anji Khad Bridge is equipped with an advanced integrated monitoring system. This system features numerous sensors that track the structural health and performance of the bridge over time, ensuring its reliability for years to come.

ET