Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has written words of praise for Indian Institute of Science (IISC) professor Madhavi Latha, who gave 17 years of her life to help build the highest railway bridge in the world. Naidu, who referred to her as “Telugu daughter”, lauded her role in creating the architectural marvel. He also congratulated the team of engineers and construction workers who made the unprecedented project see the light of day. 

“Another Telugu daughter has made India proud!” wrote Naidu on Twitter (now X). He added, “Hailing from a small village in Andhra Pradesh, she dedicated 17 years of hard work and sacrifice to build this architectural marvel for the nation.”

Naidu also “saluted” professor Latha who he hailed as one of the “brilliant minds” behind the bridge constructed over the Chenab River. The bridge was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6. 

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He further added, “I congratulate the entire team of engineers and construction workers on completing this unprecedented project, despite the challenging terrain and harsh weather conditions. Your contributions towards nation-building are inspiring.”

Take a look at what he wrote on social media:

Madhavi Latha is a rock engineering specialist who was roped in by the Northern Railways for the project. She advised that the bridge, built in an arch form, should have special focus on slope stabilisation and the foundation. The structure stands 359 metres above the riverbed and is taller than the Eiffel Tower.

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The bridge, which was built at a cost of Rs 1,486 crore, is 1,315 metres long and has a steel arch of 467 metres. It is a part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a 272-km railway line to improve connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar and Baramulla via Reasi. The bridge can withstand wind speeds of up to 260 kmph and has a lifespan of 120 years.