Prime Minister Narendra Modi today ushered in a new era for Jammu and Kashmir's transportation landscape with the inauguration of the Banihal-Sangaldan railway line and the flag-off of the valley's first electric train service.
The 48-kilometre railway line runs from Banihal in the Ramban district to Sangaldan in the Doda district, travelling through some of the region's most magnificent scenery and valleys.
The railway line, built at a cost of Rs 15,863 crore, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. With 90% of its route tunnelling through challenging terrain, the project's completion stands as a testament to the dedication of engineers and workers.
The new railway line is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line (USBRL) project. The 272 km-long project is expected to be finished in July-August 2024.
The USBRL project also contains the world's tallest railway bridge crossing the Chenab River. The Chenab Bridge's deck height above the river bed is 359 metres, and its length is 1315 metres.
The bridge costs Rs 1486 crore. However, the total cost of the project is projected at Rs 41,119 crore.
“90% of the 48 km rail link passes through tunnels, and completing these tunnels was a massive challenge for the northern railways,” said Rajesh Khare senior PRO of the Northern railways.
The railway track projected to have a significant influence on tourism by improving access to famous areas such as Patnitop and Bhaderwah.
The new line seamlessly connects Banihal in Ramban district to Sangaldan in Doda district, opening up breathtaking vistas and facilitating travel to popular tourist destinations like Patnitop and Bhaderwah.
Passengers at Jammu station lauded the Prime Minister for fulfilling his promise of bringing electric trains to the valley.
“Prime minister had promised an electric train and today he has delivered his promise,” said a passenger at Jammu station.
Furthermore, railway authorities stated that the line will improve the transit of products, adding to the region's economic development.
The electrification of the railway line is planned to minimise carbon emissions and encourage environmentally friendly transportation in the region.
Railway authorities anticipate the line to significantly enhance freight movement, fostering regional economic growth. Additionally, the electrification initiative aligns with efforts to promote eco-friendly transportation in the Kashmir Valley.
The Banihal-Sangaldan line's inauguration joins a series of ongoing infrastructure projects aimed at bolstering connectivity, economic activity, and tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. These initiatives, including the Srinagar-Baramulla and Jammu-Srinagar railway lines, pave the way for a more integrated and developed future for the region.
Follow us
