Enhanced Security Measures for Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Inauguration
As the sun rises over the picturesque landscape of the Budgam district in Kashmir, a remarkable sight unfolds—a gleaming 18-coach train making its inaugural trial run. This train, poised to connect Katra and Budgam, marks a significant milestone in linking the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country through the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla railway line. Amidst the anticipation and excitement surrounding this monumental project, security measures have been significantly heightened in Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir, in anticipation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit for the official inauguration on April 19.
A Dream Fulfilled: Connecting Kashmir with the Nation
Dilip Kumar, the esteemed Executive Director of Information and Publicity at the Railway Board, emphasized the transformative impact of the 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project on the region’s connectivity. Speaking with a sense of pride and accomplishment, he expressed, “It has been the dream of every Indian to have a train running to Kashmir. For this, we have made long preparations, and now this USBRL section is ready.” The project’s significance extends beyond mere infrastructure, with a 119-km tunnel playing a pivotal role in enhancing Kashmir’s religious, tourism, and connectivity needs.
Prime Minister Modi’s Inauguration: A Momentous Occasion
Highlighting the importance of the upcoming inauguration, Dilip Kumar shared that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be personally dedicating the USBRL project to the nation on April 19. With a keen eye on the future benefits for the country’s populace, he remarked, “The Prime Minister is going to dedicate this entire project to the country, this will benefit the people of the country a lot.” The meticulous planning for this momentous occasion includes the commencement of two Vande Bharat Express trains—a symbolic step towards bolstering the region’s rail connectivity. As Mr. Kumar revealed, “On the date of commencement of the project, we have planned to run two Vande Bharat Express trains. One Vande Bharat Express train will run from Srinagar, and the other will run from Katra to Srinagar.”
Trailblazing Journey: Vande Bharat Express Embarks on Historic Route
On January 23, a historic milestone was achieved as Indian Railways conducted the trial run of the first Vande Bharat train from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station to the Srinagar railway station. This groundbreaking journey will traverse iconic landmarks such as the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, and the Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world. Designed to withstand the harsh climate conditions of the Kashmir valley, this Vande Bharat Express heralds a new era of connectivity and accessibility for the region.
As the anticipation mounts for the grand inauguration of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link project, the entire nation eagerly awaits the moment when the first wheels of progress will set in motion. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the helm, guiding the nation towards a brighter, more connected future, the symbolic significance of this project transcends mere infrastructure—it embodies the spirit of unity and progress that defines India’s enduring journey towards development and prosperity.
