"Final Safety Inspection Underway on Banihal-Katra Railway Section"

The final safety inspection has begun on the 111-kilometre-long Banihal-Katra railway section, a key part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, connecting Jammu to the Kashmir Valley. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the commencement of the inspection in a social media post, highlighting the project's progress.

With the completion of the inspection, travel time between Jammu and Srinagar will be reduced to just three hours and ten minutes. This marks a significant step in providing faster and more convenient rail connectivity between the two regions.

The Banihal-Katra section, which features state-of-the-art infrastructure, is set to offer passengers a world-class travel experience. Jammu station is currently being redeveloped, with the addition of eight platforms and modern amenities to enhance the overall commuter experience. A new 8-coach Vande Bharat Express will soon run between Katra and Srinagar, further improving travel options.

The Banihal-Katra section, considered an engineering marvel, includes 97 kilometres of tunnels and 7 kilometres of bridges. Among the major challenges in the project was providing foundation support for the world's highest arch bridge on the Chenab River, standing at 359 metres. The project also saw the construction of India’s first cable-stayed bridge over the Anji River.

To tackle safety concerns, engineers developed an innovative Himalayan tunnelling method, which reinforced the tunnels and escape routes. The tunnels are equipped with ballast-less tracks, similar to those used in metro systems, and cameras are placed every 50 metres to monitor safety and operational data. These systems are connected to a state-of-the-art central control room.

As part of the project, 215 kilometres of roads have been built in the region, benefiting local communities. Additionally, the Vande Bharat train running in Kashmir is specially designed with anti-freezing features to ensure all-weather connectivity, even in extreme cold conditions as low as -20°C. The train is equipped with advanced heating systems, including a heated windshield in the driver’s cabin and heating elements in plumbing and bio-toilets, ensuring essential systems continue to function during the coldest weather.

This development promises to transform travel between Jammu and Srinagar, making the Kashmir Valley more accessible while maintaining the highest safety standards for passengers

ET