Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to undertake a landmark visit to Jammu and Kashmir today, 6th June, marking a major push towards enhancing infrastructure and connectivity in the region. With development projects worth over Rs 46,000 crore on the agenda. The day’s schedule includes the inauguration of iconic engineering feats like the Chenab Rail Bridge – the world’s highest railway arch and the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge.
PM Modi will also flag off new Vande Bharat trains, unveil key road infrastructure and lay the foundation stone for significant projects in healthcare and transport, signaling a new era of growth and accessibility for the Union Territory.
When will Chenab Bridge be inaugurated?
Around 11:00 AM PM Modi will begin his visit by inaugurating the Chenab Rail Bridge, an engineering marvel and the world’s highest railway arch bridge. Located 359 metres above the Chenab River, this 1,315-metre-long steel arch bridge is designed to withstand seismic activity and high wind speeds.
The bridge is expected to dramatically improve connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar, enabling Vande Bharat trains to cover the Katra-Srinagar stretch in just three hours, reducing travel time by 2–3 hours.
When will Anji Bridge be inaugurated?
After the Chenab Bridge, the Prime Minister will visit and inaugurate the Anji Bridge – India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, built in rugged terrain. It symbolises a significant advancement in railway engineering and infrastructure in the region.
When will PM Modi flag off Vande Bharat trains?
Around 12:00 PM, PM Modi will flag off two Vande Bharat Express trains connecting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar and back. These modern, high-speed trains will provide residents, tourists, and pilgrims a faster, more comfortable, and reliable travel option.
Foundation stone laying and inaugurations
At a public event in Katra, PM Modi will officially launch the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. This railway line is 272 km long and cost about Rs 43,780 crore to build. It includes 36 tunnels and 943 bridges and will connect Kashmir with the rest of India throughout the year, making travel easier and faster.
He will also lay the foundation stone for several road projects, including:
- Widening the road from Rafiabad to Kupwara (NH-701)
- Building a bypass around Shopian town (NH-444)
These road projects will cost over Rs 1,952 crore.
Two major flyovers will also be opened – one at Sangrama Junction (NH-1) and another at Bemina Junction (NH-44). These will help reduce traffic jams and improve the flow of vehicles in cities.
In addition, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Katra. This advanced hospital and medical college will cost over Rs 350 crore and will be the first of its kind in Reasi district, greatly improving healthcare services in the area.