Chenab Bridge Soars: A Record-Breaking Gateway to Kashmir

Towering above the mighty Chenab River in the Reasi district of Jammu & Kashmir, the Chenab Rail Bridge stands as a testament to India’s engineering prowess and visionary ambition. Inaugurated in June 2025 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this steel-arch marvel—soaring 359 metres above the riverbed, 29 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower—officially claims the title of the world’s highest railway bridge.

Engineering Marvel on the Global Stage

The Chenab Bridge is the crown jewel of Indian Railways’ Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a ₹43,780 crore mega initiative designed to integrate the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India via an all-weather rail network. Spanning 1,315 metres with a breathtaking 467-metre arch, the bridge is a joint achievement of Konkan Railway Corporation, Afcons Infrastructure (Shapoorji Pallonji Group), and DRDO.

• Unmatched Height: 1,178 feet above the river, 359 metres at its peak
• Steel Powerhouse: 28,660 metric tonnes of steel for unmatched strength
• Designed to Endure: Resistant to earthquakes, blasts, and 260 kmph winds
• Safety First: 120-year shelf life with redundancy systems for emergencies
• Rigorous Testing: Seismic tests by IIT Roorkee, wind tunnel simulations
• Blast-Resistant: Deformation controls and British Standard/Euro Code 8 compliance

A Lifeline for Kashmir

More than just a bridge, Chenab is a symbol of unity and progress. It connects Bakkal and Kauri, linking Katra to Banihal and slashing travel time between Jammu and Srinagar to just three hours via the newly launched Vande Bharat Express. For regions long isolated by snow and terrain, this is a game-changer—opening doors to jobs, education, and trade.

Speed, Style, and Strategic Significance

With the inauguration, PM Modi flagged off the Vande Bharat Express between Katra and Srinagar, marking the first train service into Kashmir. This premium train not only offers faster, more comfortable travel but is also equipped to handle snowy, high-altitude conditions. The bridge’s strategic importance extends to national security, providing the Indian Armed Forces with enhanced mobility in border areas.

Catalyst for Growth and Transformation

The Chenab Bridge is a catalyst for economic growth, empowering Kashmir’s horticulture, agriculture, and tourism sectors. Farmers can now transport fresh produce swiftly, artisans can reach metro markets, and tourists can explore the Valley with ease. The bridge is already hailed as one of the world’s top engineering marvels, putting India on the global infrastructure map.

Local Empowerment and Global Recognition

Beyond its engineering feats, the Chenab Bridge uplifts local communities by creating jobs, promoting education, and driving social transformation. With its stunning backdrop of snow-capped Himalayas, the bridge is set to become a tourism magnet, inspiring awe and pride in every visitor.

The Chenab Rail Bridge is more than a structure—it’s a story of vision, ambition, and resilience. It stands as a foundation for a brighter, stronger, and more connected India.