What is it?
· A steel-arch railway bridge built across the Chenab River in Reasi district, Jammu & Kashmir.
· Recognized as the world’s tallest railway bridge, at 359 meters—35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower.
Location
· Between Bakkal and Kauri villages, Reasi district, J&K.
· Part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
· Connects Katra to Sangaldan, enabling future rail connectivity to Srinagar.
Who Built It?
· Executed by: Konkan Railway Corporation (under Ministry of Railways).
· Constructed by: JV of Afcons Infrastructure, Ultra Construction & Engineering (South Korea), and VSL India.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Length | 1,315 m (785 m main span + 530 m approaches) |
| Height | 359 m above riverbed |
| Wind Resistance | Up to 266 km/h |
| Earthquake Resistance | Designed for Zone V (high seismic zone) |
| Temperature Tolerance | Operates in –20°C conditions |
| Blast-Proof | Can withstand 40 tonnes TNT equivalent explosion |
| Lifespan | 120 years |
| Train Speed | Up to 100 km/h |
Strategic & National Importance
· Border Connectivity: Enhances strategic movement in sensitive border areas near LoC.
· Unification: Key to integrating Kashmir with mainland India.
· Defense & Logistics: Facilitates troop and supply movement in emergencies.
Engineering Marvel
· Constructed in challenging Himalayan terrain with fractured geology.
· Built in high seismic zone, requiring advanced engineering solutions.
· Considered one of the most complex infrastructure projects in Indian rail history.
Broader Impact
· Boosts Tourism: Iconic structure likely to become a major attraction.
· Economic Growth: Improves transport, trade, and employment in J&K.
· Symbol of Progress: Demonstrates India’s engineering resilience and innovation.
