On August 7, 2025, the Government of India highlighted the transformative impact of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, a 272-km engineering marvel that has revolutionized connectivity, socio-economic development, and eco-safeguards in Jammu and Kashmir. Fully commissioned in June 2025, the project, declared a National Project in 2002, connects Udhampur, Reasi, Ramban, Srinagar, Anantnag, Pulwama, Budgam, and Baramulla districts, integrating the Kashmir Valley with India’s railway network. Featuring iconic structures like the Chenab Bridge and Anji Khad Bridge, the USBRL is a testament to engineering excellence and sustainable development.
Connectivity: Bridging Jammu and KashmirThe USBRL project has established an all-weather railway system, replacing the weather-dependent Jammu-Srinagar highway. The Vande Bharat Express, launched between Katra and Srinagar, reduces travel time to approximately three hours, enhancing accessibility for pilgrims, tourists, and locals. The railway spans 119 km of tunnels, including India’s longest, T-50 (12.77 km), and 943 bridges, connecting remote regions to national markets. This infrastructure has boosted tourism, with easier access to destinations like Shri Mata Vaishno Devi and Kashmir’s scenic valleys, and facilitated trade in local products like apples, dry fruits, and handicrafts, reducing transport costs.
Socio-Economic Impact: Jobs and EmpowermentThe project has generated over 5 crore man-days of employment and provided jobs to 804 individuals from families who lost over 75% of their land to the project. Additionally, 14,069 jobs were created through executing agencies, with 65% allocated to locals, fostering skill development and economic empowerment. The USBRL enhances strategic movement, supports defense logistics, and promotes regional unity, aligning with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s vision for a prosperous J&K.
Eco-Safeguards: Sustainable EngineeringThe USBRL prioritizes environmental sustainability in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Designed with inputs from IISc Bangalore, IIT Delhi, and international experts, the project incorporates slope stability measures, controlled blasting, sedimentation tanks, and air quality sensors. The fully electrified rail line reduces carbon emissions, supporting green transportation. The Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge at 359 meters, and the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, are built with specialized steel to withstand extreme temperatures (-10°C to 40°C) and seismic activity up to magnitude 8.0, ensuring durability and safety.
Land Acquisition and RehabilitationThe project acquired 1,559.48 hectares of private land and 276.71 hectares of government land, with Rs 816.21 crore paid in compensation under the Jammu & Kashmir State Land Acquisition Act, 1990. Pending claims are being addressed transparently by the Revenue Department, ensuring fair rehabilitation for affected communities.
A Vision for ProgressInaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6, 2025, the USBRL project, costing Rs 41,119 crore, is a cornerstone of J&K’s development under LG Manoj Sinha’s leadership. It not only enhances connectivity but also drives tourism, trade, and employment, while prioritizing eco-safeguards. As Sinha noted, “J&K is witnessing a new dawn of empowerment,” with the USBRL symbolizing unity, progress, and sustainable growth.
