Part of USBRL, the engineering feat links Katra and Reasi across rugged terrain
Diplomat Correspondent
Reasi, DD, After dedicating the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River to the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday continued his journey through Jammu and Kashmir by travelling to the Anji Bridge — India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
During his visit, the Prime Minister interacted with engineers, including several retired professionals, who played a pivotal role in the execution of the project. His journey underscored the strategic importance of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), aimed at integrating the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India through all-weather, high-capacity rail connectivity.
About Anji Bridge
The Anji Bridge is a technological marvel, spanning the deep gorges of the Anji Khad between Katra and Reasi. Designed as a single-pylon, asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge, it stretches 725 metres with a main span of 290 metres supported by 96 cables. Built in one of the most challenging geologies in the region, the bridge stands on a terrain prone to frequent landslides and high wind speeds.
The structure is a crucial part of the USBRL project, which aims to provide seamless rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley. Once operational, it will not only boost transportation and economic development in the region but also significantly enhance strategic and logistical access.
With both the Chenab and Anji bridges now complete, India reaffirms its capability to execute world-class infrastructure projects even in the most formidable conditions(DD)
