The ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL) project is nearing completion, paving the way for the first-ever train to chug between the two regions of Jammu and Kashmir. The project is expected to be completed by December 2023 or January 2024.
Key Highlights:
- 95 to 96 per cent of the work on the 111-km-long Katra-Banihal rail line has been completed.
- The USBRL project comprises 38 tunnels covering 119 km, with T-49 being the longest at 12.75 km.
- The direct train service will reduce the travel time between Srinagar and Jammu from six hours to 3.5 hours.
- The project is also expected to boost the economy by facilitating the transportation of goods, including horticulture items like apples.
- The government intends to launch the highly anticipated Vande Bharat Metro train service between Jammu and Srinagar.
Additional Information:
- The USBRL project also includes the construction of 927 bridges with a combined length of 13 km.
- The project has faced challenges due to the intricate and demanding Himalayan geological conditions.
- The Indian Railways has announced plans to introduce three additional Vande Bharat Express trains for Jammu and Kashmir.
Overall, the Jammu to Srinagar train project is a significant development that will improve connectivity and boost the economy of Jammu and Kashmir.
