The Chenab Bridge is a steel and concrete arch bridge between Bakkal and Kauri in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. At 359 meters above the river, it is the world's highest railway bridge, surpassing the Beipanjiang River Bridge in China.
The bridge is part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla rail link (USBRL) project, designed to connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India by rail. The bridge spans 1,315 meters in total length with the arch span of 467 meters.
Engineering Marvel
The bridge was designed to withstand winds of up to 266 km/h and earthquakes in zone V, the highest seismic zone. It uses blast-proof steel and has a design life of 120 years. The construction involved overcoming extreme weather conditions, steep terrain, and security challenges.
Construction Journey
Construction began in 2004 and faced numerous challenges including security threats, geological surprises, and extreme weather. The arch closure was achieved on April 5, 2021, marking a historic moment in Indian engineering. The bridge was inaugurated for rail traffic in 2024.
Strategic Importance
The bridge is crucial for connecting Jammu to Srinagar by rail, reducing travel time significantly. It also has strategic defense implications, providing an all-weather rail link to the Kashmir Valley.
