Jammu & Kashmir, June 28: India’s Chenab Rail Bridge, built across the Chenab River in Jammu & Kashmir, holds the distinction of being the world’s highest railway arch bridge. The engineering marvel is a key part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which aims to provide seamless rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India.
The bridge stands as one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure achievements and showcases India’s growing expertise in complex engineering projects.
Taller Than the Eiffel Tower
The Chenab Rail Bridge rises 359 metres above the Chenab River, making it approximately 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Its massive steel arch stretches 467 metres, while the overall bridge length is 1,315 metres, making it one of the longest railway arch bridges in the world.
Built to Withstand Extreme Conditions
Engineers designed the bridge to endure some of the toughest environmental conditions.
According to Indian Railways, the structure is capable of withstanding:
- Earthquakes
- Wind speeds of up to 260 km/h
- Extreme temperatures ranging from -20°C to 40°C
The bridge has also been designed with advanced corrosion protection to ensure a service life of over a century.
A Landmark Engineering Achievement
Construction of the bridge involved years of planning, advanced engineering techniques, and thousands of workers operating in challenging mountainous terrain.
The project required innovative construction methods due to the deep gorge, difficult weather conditions, and remote location.
Transforming Rail Connectivity
The Chenab Rail Bridge is a vital component of the USBRL project, which connects Kashmir with India’s national railway network.
Once fully operational, the rail link is expected to improve passenger travel, freight movement, tourism, and economic development across the region.
A Symbol of Modern India
Recognised as one of India’s greatest engineering accomplishments, the Chenab Rail Bridge reflects the country’s growing capabilities in infrastructure development.
Its successful completion has earned international recognition and strengthened India’s reputation for delivering large-scale engineering projects in difficult terrain.
Source: Ministry of Railways, Government of India
Original Report:
https://indianrailways.gov.in/
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