Srinagar, Dec 23: Marking a significant milestone in UT’s railway connectivity under Udhampur Srinagar Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, Northern Railways conducted a successful trolley trial run through the recently renamed, T-50 railway tunnel, India’s longest tunnel strategically situated between Sumbar and Khari, officials on Saturday said.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) USBRL Northern Railways, Surender Mahi said they have successfully conducted the trolley run of T-50 tunnel, marking a pivotal advancement in the ongoing efforts to enhance rail connectivity across the region.
He highlighted that T-50 is India’s longest tunnel with a length of 12.7 kilometers. “The trolley inspection has been conducted as the track has already been completed. Trains will soon traverse from Sumbar to Khari railway station, with thorough checks on ballistic tracks completed,” Mahi said.
He added that out of the total 120.6 kilometers from Banihal to Katra, approximately 90 kilometers have been completed. While the finalization of the remaining stretch will take some time, CAO Mahi assured that Kashmir will soon be seamlessly connected with Katra.
“The completion of the initial 161 km stretch was achieved in three distinct phases. Last month, the Indian Railways successfully conducted a trolley run on the critical Banihal-Khari railway stretch of the USBRL project,” he said.
Speaking about the Sumbar station, Mahi said that the tunnel has been constructed to international standards to eliminate the chances of any misadventure. “Soft rocks have been removed, and an improved drainage system is in place. The train will soon operate between Jammu and Srinagar,” he said.
He said the positive impact of the project on the local community, stating that it has generated employment opportunities. Skilled labor from the region is being employed elsewhere, and students can easily travel from other places to major cities for education.
Mahi further mentioned that facilities for specially-abled individuals, including ramps and signages, have been constructed. Train indicator boards, waiting rooms, toilets, and other railway facilities have also been completed.
“Preparations for the operationalization of Khari, Sumbar, and Sangaldan Railway Stations are well underway, with buildings and other infrastructure nearing completion. Lights have been installed, and the communication and mobile tower system is already operational in the tunnel,” he said.
In March this year, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had announced the upcoming operation of the country’s first indigenous semi-high-speed train on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail route, anticipated to begin by the end of this year.
He also mentioned that the Udhampur-Banihal track, connecting Jammu with Srinagar, would be completed by December this year or early next year.
