In a remarkable feat of engineering and determination, India has achieved what was once deemed impossible - running a state-of-the-art Vande Bharat Express train across the world's highest rail bridge in Kashmir. As the train gracefully glided over the mighty Chenab River on January 25, 2024, it didn't just mark a successful trial run; it symbolized the bridging of geographical barriers and the dawn of a new era in India's railway history. This groundbreaking journey, spanning from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar, represents more than just a transportation milestone - it's a testament to India's technological prowess and its commitment to connecting even the most challenging terrains.

The Indian Railways successfully completed the maiden trial run of the customized Vande Bharat Express train on Saturday (January 25), improving rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. The train went from the railway station at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) to the one at Srinagar. It travelled via the highest rail bridge in the world, the Chenab Bridge. For the entire country, the bridge's passage was a momentous occasion. Additionally, it passed through the first cable-stayed railway bridge in India, the Anji Khad bridge.

What’s So Special About Chenab Rail Bridge ?

The Chenab rail bridge is situated in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi District between Bakkal and Kauri. The bridge spans the Chenab River, which is 359 meters above the ground. It is the world's highest rail bridge and also world's highest arch bridge. It became operational in the year 2022.

Experiencing The Vande Bharat Jammu - SriNagar Journey

At a maximum speed of 85 kmph, the train, which carried engineers, GRP, RPF, and railway officials, left Katra at 8 am and arrived at Budgam station at 11 am. It stopped for a brief period and went back to Katra. Large crowds flocked to see this contemporary engineering marvel during the train's previous stops in Jammu, Dhampur, and Katra.

Special modifications to Vande Bharat for SriNagar

The Vande Bharat train has undergone special upgrades to make it more resilient to the harsh weather in Jammu and Kashmir. In addition to bio-toilet tanks, insulated pipes that keep pipes from freezing, and defrost mechanisms built into the windshield for unobstructed vision, it has sophisticated heating systems. Large, break-resistant glass windows provide sweeping vistas of the picturesque scenery of Jammu & Kashmir. These special editions shall ensure optimal performance even in sub-zero temperatures.

The Katra-Srinagar route would see the launching of two Vande Bharat trains. The first will stop in Budgam, and the second at Katra. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is anticipated to launch the first service in February, marking the start of commercial operations.

Boosting Connectivity and Tourism

The successful trial run is a significant step in overcoming geographic barriers and promoting regional economic development. The Vande Bharat Express, which would connect the valley to the rest of the nation, is expected to boost trade and tourism in Kashmir with better train connectivity.

The successful trial run of the Vande Bharat Express over the Chenab Bridge marks not just an engineering triumph, but a beacon of progress for Jammu and Kashmir. As these specially modified trains prepare to begin their commercial operations, they carry with them the promise of transformation - weaving together the threads of connectivity, tourism, and economic growth. With each journey across the magnificent Chenab Bridge, the Vande Bharat Express will not only showcase India's technological capabilities but also strengthen the bonds between Kashmir and the rest of India, making the paradise on earth more accessible than ever before. This achievement stands as a powerful symbol of how determination, innovation, and vision can literally move mountains - or in this case, traverse them in style.