Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on June 6 to inaugurate two landmark railway bridges — the Chenab Rail Bridge, the highest railway arch bridge in the world, and the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge. During the visit, he will also unveil multiple infrastructure and connectivity projects worth over ₹46,000 crore at Katra.
Inauguration of Chenab and Anji Bridges
As part of efforts to boost connectivity in the region, PM Modi will first inaugurate the Chenab Bridge, situated 359 meters above the Chenab River. Stretching 1,315 meters, the steel arch structure is a global engineering marvel and can withstand earthquakes and strong winds. Once operational, it will drastically cut travel time between Katra and Srinagar, bringing it down to around 3 hours—saving nearly 2–3 hours.
Following this, the Prime Minister will visit the Anji Bridge, which holds the distinction of being India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge. Built across a deep valley in a seismically active region, the Anji Bridge adds a critical link to the challenging terrain of the region and supports modern rail operations.
Flagging Off Vande Bharat Trains
At around 12 noon, PM Modi will flag off two Vande Bharat Express trains connecting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar. These state-of-the-art semi-high-speed trains will offer faster, more comfortable, and safer travel options for residents, pilgrims, and tourists, especially enhancing the pilgrimage experience to the revered Vaishno Devi shrine.
Launch of USBRL Project
A significant highlight of the visit is the dedication of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project to the nation. The 272-km long project, built at a cost of approximately ₹43,780 crore, consists of 36 tunnels (totaling 119 km) and 943 bridges, overcoming some of the most difficult terrain in the country. The USBRL establishes an all-weather rail link between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India, a feat expected to transform economic integration and connectivity in the region.
Major Road and Highway Projects
To strengthen road infrastructure, especially in border and remote areas, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for multiple road and highway projects worth over ₹1,952 crore. These include:
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Widening of the Rafiabad–Kupwara road on National Highway-701
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Construction of Shopian bypass on NH-444
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Inauguration of flyovers at Sangrama Junction (NH-1) and Bemina Junction (NH-44) in Srinagar
These projects will reduce congestion and ensure smooth traffic flow for commuters and commercial vehicles alike.
New Medical College in Katra
In a major push for healthcare, the PM will also lay the foundation stone of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence at Katra, with an investment of over ₹350 crore. It will be the first medical college in Reasi district, significantly improving access to medical education and healthcare services in the region.
