Northern Railways successfully tried an electric engine on the world's tallest arch rail bridge over the Chenab River, marking a crucial step towards integrating Kashmir into the national railway network. The Sangaldan-Baramulla section is already operational, and the Reasi-Sangaldan trial run furthers this progress. Prime Minister Narendra Modi plans to inaugurate the rail link from Reasi to Kashmir on July 10. Deepak Kumar, Chief Public Relations Officer of Northern Railway, confirmed inspections for June 27 and 28, with all preparations set for the CRS inspection. This project aims to enhance connectivity and support Amarnath pilgrims.
Last week, Northern Railways achieved a significant milestone by successfully conducting a trial run of an electric engine between Sangaldan in Ramban district and Reasi. This trial included the iconic world's tallest arch rail bridge, often referred to as the "eighth wonder of the world," which spans the Chenab River in Reasi. A senior railway official highlighted the importance of this achievement, stating that the successful trial of the electric engine marks a crucial step towards enabling train services to Kashmir from other parts of the country, potentially as early as June 30.
With the Sangaldan-Baramulla section already in operation, the successful trial run on the Reasi-Sangaldan segment further integrates Kashmir into the national railway network. The official further noted that the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) will soon conduct a thorough trial run from Reasi to Sangaldan, extending to Baramulla. Preparations are underway to ensure all staffing and logistical arrangements are in place before the CRS inspection. Prime Minister Narendra Modi plans to officially inaugurate the rail link from Reasi to Kashmir on July 10.
This new rail connection will provide a reliable alternative for Amarnath pilgrims, particularly if disruptions occur on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway (NH44). The annual Amarnath pilgrimage, which begins on June 29 and lasts for 52 days, underscores the timely relevance of this development. Deepak Kumar, Chief Public Relations Officer of the Northern Railway, confirmed that they had scheduled inspections for June 27 and 28. Kumar assured that his team would complete all necessary work before the CRS inspection, ensuring readiness for the inaugural operations. Sources within the railways indicate that the first train service between Sangaldan and Reasi is likely to commence on June 30, following the successful trial run of the electric engine.
Last month, Shobhan Chaudhuri, General Manager of Northern Railway, conducted a personal inspection of the Chenab Bridge and the Bakkal-Duggar-Sawalkote-Sangaldan section, evaluating various aspects of the project. The Chenab rail bridge, an engineering marvel that stands 359 metres above the riverbed and towers 35 metres higher than the Eiffel Tower, is a vital component of this ambitious project. The Jammu and Kashmir Administration plans to develop the bridge into a major tourist attraction, capitalising on its unique status and stunning architecture.
In summary, Northern Railways' successful trial run of the electric engine on the world?s tallest arch rail bridge represents a major advancement in the effort to integrate Kashmir into the national railway network. With inspections and inaugural runs on the horizon, this project is poised to significantly enhance connectivity and potentially transform the region?s infrastructure and tourism landscape. This endeavour not only underscores Northern Railways' commitment to expanding its network but also highlights the potential for regional development and increased accessibility.
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