In short :
On June 7, 2025, PM Narendra Modi flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar, marking the operational completion of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL).
This rail link is being hailed as a transformative infrastructure project for connectivity, development, and integration of Jammu & Kashmir.
UDHAMPUR-SRINAGAR-BARAMULLA RAIL LINK (USBRL)
Project Length: 272 km
Approved in: 1995
Declared a national project: 2002
Total Cost: ₹43,780 crore
Sections:
- Udhampur–Katra: 25 km
- Katra–Banihal: 111 km (most challenging terrain)
- Banihal–Qazigund: 18 km
- Qazigund–Baramulla: 118 km
Engineering Marvel :
Chenab Bridge:
- World’s highest railway arch bridge: 359 m above riverbed
- Arch span: 467 m
- Can withstand Zone V earthquakes and 266 km/hr wind speeds
Anji Khad Bridge:
- India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge
India’s Longest Transport Tunnel:
- 12.77 km between Banihal and Qazigund
Strategic and Economic Significance
Geostrategic Integration:
- Enhances national integration of the Kashmir Valley with the Indian mainland.
- Improves strategic military logistics in a sensitive border region.
Developmental Impact:
- Boosts local economy, tourism, and employment.
- Facilitates faster movement of goods like apples, pashmina, dry fruits, and handicrafts.
- Reduces transport cost and improves supply chains for essentials.
Connectivity Impact:
- All-weather, round-the-year connectivity even during snowfall.
- Reduces Katra–Srinagar journey time to just 3 hours from 6–8 by road.
Historical Timeline of the Rail Links :
Challenges
- Seismic Zones IV & V: Complex tunnelling and safety design
- Topography: Pir Panjal and Shivalik Hills with heavy snowfall
- Delays due to: land acquisition, cost escalation, and engineering difficulties
UPSC Relevance
GS2 – Governance & Federalism
National projects in sensitive states and Union Territories, Infrastructure as a tool for integration and peacebuilding
GS3 – Infrastructure & Inclusive Development
Border connectivity, railways in mountainous terrain, Public investment in logistics and transport modernization
GS1 – Indian Geography
Himalayas, Pir Panjal, and infrastructure development in difficult terrain
Possible Mains Questions
“The USBRL Project reflects India’s commitment to inclusive development and national integration.” Elaborate.
