Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project : 27 Feb, 2024

Why in News:

• ​​Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the Banihal-Sangaldan section of the railway line which aims to connect Baramulla in North Kashmir to Udhampur in Jammu. 

Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project

• Objective: The USBRL Project aims to connect the Kashmir Valley with the Indian Railways network, promoting development in the region.
• National Project: Declared in 2002, it symbolizes a significant infrastructure initiative for national integration.
• Total Length: The railway line spans 272 km from Udhampur to Baramulla.

Tunnels and Bridges:

• Tunnels: 38 in total, covering 119 km. The longest, Tunnel T-49, extends 12.75 km, making it India’s longest transportation tunnel.
• Bridges: 927 bridges, totaling 13 km in length. Key highlights include:
  • Chenab Bridge: The world’s highest railway bridge, with an overall length of 1315 m, an arch span of 467 m, and standing 359 m above the Chenab riverbed.
  • Anji Khad Bridge: Indian Railways’ first cable-stayed bridge, showcasing innovative engineering within the project.