Latest news with #UnionRailways
News18
4 days ago
- Business
- News18
'A Dream Railized': Amul Celebrates Landmark Chenab Bridge With New Ad, Ashwini Vaishnaw Reacts
Last Updated: The ad, styled in Amul's trademark witty tone, features an illustration of the engineering marvel with the caption: 'A Dream Railized." Dairy giant Amul released a special print advertisement on Sunday celebrating the recently inaugurated Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir — the world's highest railway arch bridge. The ad, styled in Amul's trademark witty tone, features an illustration of the engineering marvel with the caption: 'A Dream Railized." Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reshared the advertisement on social media platform X, thanking the dairy giant for recognising the landmark development in Valley. Amul's secondary tagline in the ad reads: 'Amul A Ticket To Great Taste". The advertisement was widely seen as a nod to the bridge's role in improving access to remote regions and its significance in national integration. Thank you Amul. — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) June 8, 2025 Engineering Marvel The Chenab Bridge, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, stands at a staggering height of 359 metres above the Chenab River — taller than the Eiffel Tower. It is part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL), aimed at connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India via an all-weather rail network. Construction of the 1.3-kilometre-long bridge began in 2017 after years of planning and overcoming complex challenges including difficult Himalayan terrain, seismic activity, and extreme weather conditions. The project used over 30,000 tonnes of steel and was designed to withstand winds up to 260 km/h and even explosions, according to officials. The bridge is expected to drastically cut travel time between key regions in Jammu and Kashmir, with the Vande Bharat Express now set to operate through the corridor. The Chenab Bridge is also being hailed as a strategic asset, enhancing logistics and connectivity in a sensitive border region. Amul's tribute comes at a moment of national pride, blending its legacy of social commentary with a celebration of Indian infrastructure. First Published: June 08, 2025, 16:12 IST
United News of India
5 days ago
- Business
- United News of India
Train connectivity to transform tourism, boost trade, improve mobility: J&K CM
Katra (J&K) June 6 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday hailed the rail-link of Kashmir with the rest of the country as a 'historic accomplishment,' stating that the development will boost tourism, trade, and bring comfort in the daily lives of people of Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a large gathering at Katra during the inauguration of the Chenab and Anji Bridges and at the flagging off ceremony of the Vande Bharat Train to Kashmir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Abdullah highlighted the difficulties faced by people during inclement weather when highway closures lead to exorbitant airfares. This marks Kashmir's first all-weather railway connectivity with the rest of India. Also present on the occasion were Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union MoS PMO Dr. Jitendra Singh, and other dignitaries. 'The benefits to Jammu and Kashmir will be substantial. Tourism will receive a major boost, and the daily lives of our residents will improve,' the Chief Minister said. 'With this railway line operational, that hardship will be alleviated to a great extent, offering affordable and reliable transportation,' he noted. Speaking about the economic benefits, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of better market access for the region's horticultural produce. 'Our apples, cherries, and other fruit will now find faster and more easy access to markets across the country and even globally. This will provide a significant economic benefit to our growers and traders,' he said. Lauding Prime Minister Modi's leadership, the Chief Minister said that the successful completion of this critical infrastructure project stands as a testament to the Centre's commitment to the development of Jammu and Kashmir. 'Under PM Modi's stewardship, yet another critical infrastructure project in Jammu and Kashmir has been completed. We are also witnessing rapid progress on other vital initiatives — the Jammu Ring Road, the Srinagar Ring Road, the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, the four-laning of the Jammu-Srinagar Highway, and the expansion of both the Jammu and Srinagar airports and the railway network,' he said. The Chief Minister expressed hope that with the Prime Minister's continued support, Jammu and Kashmir will soon regain its status as a full-fledged state. 'Today marks yet another momentous occasion. With your leadership and support, we look forward to Jammu & Kashmir regaining its status as a full-fledged state,' he said. Reflecting on his tryst with key milestones in J&K's rail history, Omar Abdullah recalled his presence at the inauguration of the Anantnag Railway Station, the Banihal Railway Tunnel, and his government's final event at the same venue with PM Modi in 2014. 'You may call it fate, or perhaps destiny, but I have always had the good fortune of being present at key milestones in Jammu and Kashmir's railway journey,' he said. He also recalled that the dream of connecting Kashmir via railway dates back to colonial times. 'Even during British rule, plans were envisioned — such as the proposed Uri and Jhelum railway lines — but they remained unfulfilled. What the British could not achieve, you have made a reality. You have connected Kashmir with the rest of India and, through it, to the wider world. This is a historic accomplishment,' he said. Paying tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he credited him for being the first to recognize the rail network to Kashmir as a project of national importance. 'This progress owes much to the vision of Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji, who declared this railway line a project of national importance. Since then, the project has seen consistent progress and budgetary prioritization,' he said. Reaffirming his government's commitment to development, the Chief Minister reiterated his resolve to fulfill the vision of a prosperous region. 'Our government remains committed to the vision of 'Viksit Jammu Kashmir, Viksit Bharat' — a developed Jammu and Kashmir, a developed India — and we are determined to realize this goal for the people of our region.' Concluding his remarks, the Chief Minister extended his gratitude to the Prime Minister on behalf of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. 'On this historic day, on behalf of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, I extend my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to you, Prime Minister. Thank you for your unwavering support and for helping turn decades-old dreams into reality.' UNI VBH BD
India Gazette
5 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
"Dedication, service and good governance": Delhi CM Rekha Gupta praises PM Modi for completing 11 years of leadership
New Delhi [India], June 6 (ANI): Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for completing 11 years of leadership, calling it a period marked by 'dedication, service and good governance.' She also hailed the inauguration of the world's highest railway bridge - the Chenab Bridge - in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a historic feat of Indian engineering. In a post on X, Rekha Gupta wrote, '11 years of dedication, service and good governance! In the last 11 years, under the leadership of Hon'ble @narendramodi ji, India has touched new heights of development, trust and global pride.' She also shared her appreciation for the Prime Minister's latest achievement, the inauguration of the Chenab Bridge - a major milestone in India's infrastructure development. 'Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today inaugurated the world's highest railway bridge - Chenab Bridge, a unique marvel of Indian engineering, in the valleys of Jammu and Kashmir,' she tweeted. Describing the Chenab Bridge as more than just a structure, she called it a reflection of India's new spirit. 'This bridge is not just a structure, it is a symbol of the confidence, determination and speed of the new India,' Gupta added. Concluding her message, the Chief Minister extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Prime Minister, 'Hearty thanks and congratulations to the Prime Minister for this historic achievement.' Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the world's highest railway arch bridge - 'Chenab Railway Bridge' and India's first cable-stayed 'Anji Bridge' in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district. In a remarkable gesture, Prime Minister Modi waved the Tiranga, the Indian national flag and carried it forward on the deck of the bridge on the Chenab River. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw were present during the inauguration. Before the inauguration of the bridge on the Chenab, the Prime Minister inspected the railway arch bridge. These bridges are part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project in Jammu and Kashmir. The iconic Chenab Railway Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, is part of the Katra-to-Sangaldan stretch, connecting New Delhi directly with Kashmir via Katra. Situated in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Chenab Bridge is an engineering marvel standing at a height of 359 meters above the riverbed. It will officially connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India via rail for the first time in history. The project faced numerous engineering and logistical challenges due to the region's difficult terrain and seismic sensitivity. Yet, after years of meticulous work, the bridge now stands as a testament to India's technological prowess and commitment to inclusive development. It marks a transformative chapter in India's infrastructural landscape, promising greater connectivity, economic growth, and social integration in the region. Apart from this, Prime Minister Modi also flagged off two Vande Bharat trains from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar and back shortly. They will offer a swift, comfortable, and reliable travel option for residents, tourists, and pilgrims. The Prime Minister will also dedicate the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project to the nation. The 272 km long USBRL project, constructed worth around Rs 43,780 crore, includes 36 tunnels (spanning 119 km) and 943 bridges. The project establishes all-weather, seamless rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country, aiming to transform regional mobility and drive socio-economic integration. (ANI)
India Gazette
6 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
J-K: PM Modi flags off two Vande Bharat Express trains from Katra to Srinagar
Reasi (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 6 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains from Katra Railway Station, directly connecting Jammu division with Kashmir. This marks a major milestone in Jammu and Kashmir's railway connectivity. Before flagging off the trains, Prime Minister Modi interacted with school children onboard and also spoke with railway staff members present on the train. The new Vande Bharat Express service will reduce the travel time between Katra and Srinagar from the current 6-7 hours by road to just about 3 hours. The trains aim to provide a fast, comfortable, and reliable travel option for residents, tourists, and pilgrims. The train will run through the Anji Khad Bridge, which is India's first cable-stayed railway bridge, and the Chenab Bridge, which is the highest railway bridge in the world. These trains have been specially designed to operate in the cold climatic conditions of the Kashmir Valley. Earlier today, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the world's highest railway arch bridge - 'Chenab Railway Bridge' and India's first cable-stayed 'Anji Bridge' in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district. In a remarkable gesture, Prime Minister Modi waved the Tiranga, the Indian national flag and carried it forward on the deck of the bridge on the Chenab River. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw were present during the inauguration. Before the inauguration of the bridge on the Chenab, the Prime Minister inspected the railway arch bridge. These bridges are part of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project in Jammu and Kashmir. The iconic Chenab Railway Bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, is part of the Katra-to-Sangaldan stretch, connecting New Delhi directly with Kashmir via Katra. Situated in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Chenab Bridge is an engineering marvel standing at a height of 359 meters above the riverbed. It will officially connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India via rail for the first time in history. The project faced numerous engineering and logistical challenges due to the region's difficult terrain and seismic sensitivity. Yet, after years of meticulous work, the bridge now stands as a testament to India's technological prowess and commitment to inclusive development. It marks a transformative chapter in India's infrastructural landscape, promising greater connectivity, economic growth, and social integration in the region. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project is 272 km long USBRL project, constructed worth around Rs 43,780 crore, includes 36 tunnels (spanning 119 km) and 943 bridges. The project establishes all-weather, seamless rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of the country, aiming to transform regional mobility and drive socio-economic integration. (ANI)
India Gazette
6 days ago
- Politics
- India Gazette
Ashwini Vaishnaw shares video of Anji, India's first cable-stayed rail bridge that PM Modi will inaugurate today
Reasi (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 6 (ANI): Ahead of its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Friday shared a captivating video of India's first cable-stayed railway bridge, the Anji Bridge, built on the Anji River in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district. The video, posted on X, was accompanied by a Hindi caption that read, 'Think firmly, There is a wide path of virtue, Keep moving forward. Keep moving forward.' Anji Bridge is the country's 'first cable-stayed bridge' of Indian Railways connecting Katra and Reasi in Jammu and Kashmir. The bridge is a part of the national project of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project. The bridge is located in the young fold mountains of the Himalayas, having extremely complex, fragile and daunting geological features in the form of faults, folds and thrusts and besides the seismic proneness of the region. The Anji Khad Bridge rises boldly across the rugged Himalayan terrain, standing as India's first cable-stayed railway bridge. It spans the deep Anji River valley, south of the Chenab, connecting the Katra Banihal section of the Udhampur Srinagar Baramulla Rail Line. About 80 kilometres from Jammu city, the bridge is set against a striking backdrop of snow-covered peaks. Towering 331 metres above the riverbed and stretching 725 metres across, it is anchored by 96 high tensile cables. At its heart stands an inverted Y-shaped pylon that climbs 193 metres above its foundation. The total length of cable strand used in the bridge is an impressive 653 kilometres. Remarkably, the entire structure was completed in just 11 months, as per the official release. Over 8,200 metric tonnes of structural steel have gone into its construction, ensuring strength and durability in a region shaped by young, restless mountains. Built to endure tremors, strong winds and shifting geology, the Anji Khad Bridge is more than an engineering feat. It is a symbol of human will and vision. As part of the Udhampur Srinagar Baramulla Rail Link, it promises to bring smoother travel, faster transit and greater economic opportunities to the region. (ANI)
