Chenab Bridge: Indian Railways Successfully Conducts Trial Run on World’s Highest Rail Bridge

June 21, 2024

Indian Railways tested an eight-coach MEMU train on the world’s highest railway bridge, the Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, on June 20. The test went well. This is an important step toward starting train service on the route from Reasi to Baramulla.

Execution and Details of the Trial

The test took place on a 46-km piece of electricity-powered track between Sangaldan in the Ramban district and Reasi. The train went at 40 km/h and was seen going through nine tunnels that were a total of 40.787 km long. The largest tunnel was T-44, which is 11.13 km long. After a close look by top officials from the Railway Board, Northern Railway, and Konkan Railway, this trial was very important.

Chenab Bridge Specifications

The world’s highest arch railway bridge, the Chenab Bridge, is at the center of this trial. The bridge spans the Chenab River between the Dugga and Bakkal stations. It is 1315 meters long, with an arch span of 467 meters, and rises 359 meters above the riverbed, which is about 35 meters higher than the Eiffel Tower.

Historical and Strategic Importance

This bridge is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which was named a “National Project” in 2002 because it is so important for connecting Jammu and Kashmir. Different parts of the project have been opened one at a time. In February 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened the 48.1 km long stretch between Banihal and Sangaldan. If the test run goes well, trains will be able to use this route in the future. This will make it easier for people to get around Jammu and Kashmir, which will help with trade and tourists. This is a step toward making the area more like the rest of India, which will help with social and cultural exchanges.

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