Srinagar: Marking a significant milestone in the completion of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate a train to Kashmir on February 17.
An official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the Prime Minister will flag off the specially designed Vande Bharat Express from the Jammu division.
“After years of dedication, engineering brilliance, and relentless efforts, the long-cherished dream of Kashmir’s rail connectivity has finally been realized. The Vande Bharat Express will soon run on this historic route,” the official said.
As part of the USBRL project, Indian Railways has conducted multiple successful trial runs, traversing some of the nation’s most iconic bridges.
The Anji Khad Bridge, with its 331-meter-high pylon, stands as a remarkable feat of engineering, while the Chenab Bridge, at 359 meters, holds the distinction of being the world’s highest railway bridge—surpassing even the Eiffel Tower. These bridges not only enhance regional connectivity but also showcase India’s technological and infrastructural prowess.
“The train has been specially designed to operate efficiently in Jammu and Kashmir’s harsh winter conditions on the Katra-Srinagar rail route,” the official said, adding, “It features advanced climate-resistant technologies, including heating systems that prevent water and bio-toilet tanks from freezing.”
Additionally, he said that the air-brake system is optimized for smooth operations even in sub-zero temperatures.
“The Vande Bharat Express also includes embedded heating elements in the windshield to automatically defrost the driver’s front lookout glass, ensuring clear visibility in extreme winter conditions,” the official said, adding, “Apart from these specialized adaptations, the train offers all standard Vande Bharat amenities, such as fully air-conditioned coaches, automatic plug doors, mobile charging sockets, and more.”—(KNO)
