For every region, state, or country, its transport infrastructure plays a pivotal role in shaping its future. Kashmir, which has always struggled with transport issues in the past, with several infrastructural development initiatives, investments, and projects, has finally embarked on its path to progress.
The abrogation of Article 370 has paved the way for several infrastructural development projects. It has opened the doors of development for Jammu and Kashmir. The rapidly progressing Udhampur-Srinagar, Baramulla, considered a challenging project to develop, is a significant example of infrastructural development in the region.
The railway link, considered the most challenging railway project in India, is slated to complete by 2023. It is a 272-kilometer railway route, starting from Jammu and ending at Baramulla. The link will connect Kashmir with the rest of India. Let’s explore a few aspects of this railway line that will encourage tourism and foster industrial growth in the vale.
Project Cost and Sections
The project is undertaken by the Firozpur Railway Division of the Northern Zone of Indian Railways. The total cost of the project is estimated to be INR 28,000 crores. The work for the first section that links Udhampur to Katra and the third section between Banihal and Baramulla has been completed. Now, the work for the most challenging Katra-Banihal is underway.
The 25-kilometer long Udhampur-Katra, 18-kilometer Banihal-Qazigund, and 118-kilometer Qazigund-Baramulla have already been commissioned. The 111-kilometer long Katra-Banihal leg of the project is currently being executed. The most challenging stretch of the railway is Katra-Qazigund (129 kilometers). It passes through the ranges of Patni and Pir Panjal. Further, the section has 174 kilometers of tunnels. Out of that, 126 kilometers have already been completed.
Project Contributors
Agencies such as KRCL, IRCON, and Northern Railway have been involved in the project. Besides, IIT Delhi, IIT Roorkee, Geological Survey of India, and DRDO have also contributed their expertise in planning and implementing it.
The Chenab Bridge!
The Chenab Bridge, which is situated at the height of a staggering 359 meters (1,178 feet), lies on this line. Once the construction of the bridge is completed, it will be the tallest railway bridge in the world!
Conclusion
While such projects will contribute to socio-economic development, they will connect Kashmir with the rest of the country. The region, which somehow remained isolated from the viewpoint of development from the rest of the country, has eventually begun developing at a rapid pace. Of course, what will prove interesting to watch in the future is how significantly beneficial these projects will prove to be across the economic and social points of view.
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