In a significant milestone for the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, the Commissioner of Railway Safety (Northern Railways), Dinesh Chand Deshwal, conducted an inspection of the Katra-Reasi section on Tuesday.
The inspection marks a crucial step toward the full operational commencement of the ambitious railway project, aimed at connecting Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India via rail network.
Deshwal travelled on a trolley from Katra to the Anji Khad, where he reviewed the progress of construction and inspected key elements of the project.
Railway Safety Commissioner Conducted final inspection & trials on #Katra-#Reasi section of #Udhampur #Srinagar #Baramulla Railway project (USBRL)@RailMinIndia @IRCTCofficial @RailwayNorthern @AshwiniVaishnaw @OfficeOfLGJandK @diprjk @OmarAbdullah pic.twitter.com/iT8wB8LEnJ
— Jammu Ladakh vision (@jammu_ladakh) January 7, 2025
Accompanied by senior railway officials, he assessed the safety and operational readiness of the section, which included several challenging engineering feats.
Later, Deshwal reached the Reasi railway station, where he held discussions with officials and issued essential instructions to ensure the project adhered to safety standards and timelines.
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A full-speed trial run is scheduled for Wednesday, January 8. The trial will test the operational capability of the track and identify any potential issues before passenger services commence. The section is designed for speeds up to 100 kmph and has undergone electrification to support modern train operations, including services like the Vande Bharat Express.
The USBRL project is a transformative initiative that includes remarkable structures such as the Chenab Bridge and Anji Bridge, as well as long tunnels navigating challenging terrain. The formation of a dedicated railway division in Jammu and Kashmir has further streamlined operational and maintenance activities, strengthening the region's rail infrastructure.
With the inspection nearing completion, the railway authorities are optimistic about commencing passenger train services soon, fulfilling a long-cherished dream of enhanced connectivity for the region. Once operational, the USBRL is expected to boost economic development, tourism, and accessibility across Jammu and Kashmir, marking a new era in the region’s integration with the national rail network.
