The Chenab Bridge, a key part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL), will stand 359 metres above the Chenab River, making it the tallest railway bridge in the world. Spanning 1,315 metres between Bakkal and Kauri villages in Jammu and Kashmir, it will reduce travel time between Katra and Banihal to just 20 minutes.

Built to withstand extreme weather and seismic activity, the bridge features blast-proof steel and high-strength concrete, ensuring durability in harsh Himalayan conditions. With wind resistance up to 266 km/h and the ability to endure temperatures as low as -40°C, its construction involved advanced engineering techniques, including one of the world’s largest cable cranes.

The Rs 1,486 crore project required 25,000 tons of steel, 4,000 tons of reinforced steel, and 46,000 cubic metres of concrete. A GIS-enabled monitoring system has been integrated for real-time surveillance and maintenance, ensuring its longevity. Designed to last over 120 years, the bridge will strengthen transportation and boost economic growth in the region.

Beyond infrastructure, the Chenab Bridge showcases India’s engineering excellence on a global scale. By improving connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, it will transform regional travel, boost trade, and drive long-term economic development.