PM Modi to Inaugurate Chenab Bridge, Launch ₹46,000 Cr Projects in J&K on June 6
PM Modi to Visit Jammu & Kashmir on June 6; To Inaugurate World’s Highest Railway Arch Bridge and Launch Projects Worth ₹46,000 Crore
Delhi : Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on June 6, marking a significant step in boosting infrastructure and connectivity in the region. During the visit, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the world’s highest railway arch bridge—Chenab Bridge—as well as India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge—Anji Bridge, alongside launching and dedicating development projects worth over ₹46,000 crore at a public event in Katra.
Key Highlights of the Visit
Chenab Bridge: Engineering Marvel
The Chenab Rail Bridge, located at a staggering height of 359 metres above the river, holds the title of the world’s highest railway arch bridge. Spanning 1,315 metres, the steel arch bridge is built to withstand seismic activity and high-velocity winds. The bridge will drastically enhance connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar, enabling Vande Bharat trains to cover the Katra-Srinagar distance in just about three hours, reducing current travel time by 2–3 hours.
Anji Bridge: India’s First Cable-Stayed Rail Bridge
The Anji Bridge, another engineering feat, is India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge. Designed to tackle the challenges of difficult Himalayan terrain, the bridge is a strategic addition to India’s expanding rail infrastructure.
Major Railway Connectivity Boost
Prime Minister Modi will also dedicate the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project to the nation. Built at a cost of ₹43,780 crore, the 272 km USBRL project features 36 tunnels (totaling 119 km) and 943 bridges, establishing all-weather, seamless rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country. The project is expected to transform the region’s mobility and foster socio-economic integration.
Flagging Off Vande Bharat Trains
At around 12 noon, the Prime Minister will flag off two Vande Bharat Express trains connecting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar and back, providing a fast, comfortable, and modern travel option for residents, tourists, and pilgrims.
Road and Infrastructure Projects
In a major thrust to last-mile and border area connectivity, the Prime Minister will:
Lay the foundation stone for the Rafiabad to Kupwara road widening project on NH-701 and the Shopian bypass road on NH-444 (combined worth ₹1,952 crore).
Inaugurate flyovers at Sangrama Junction (NH-1) and Bemina Junction (NH-44) to ease urban traffic congestion in Srinagar.
Healthcare Infrastructure Push
PM Modi will also lay the foundation stone for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Katra, with an investment of ₹350 crore. This will be Reasi district’s first medical college, significantly enhancing healthcare access and infrastructure in the region.
The Prime Minister’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to integrated development and infrastructure transformation in Jammu & Kashmir, paving the way for enhanced connectivity, healthcare, and economic growth.
