JAMMU, June 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jammu and Kashmir on June 6, marking a significant step in the region’s infrastructure and connectivity transformation. The visit will include a series of inaugurations and foundation stone-laying ceremonies for development projects collectively worth over ₹46,000 crore.
As part of his commitment to bolster rail infrastructure in the Union Territory, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge—the world’s highest railway arch bridge—at approximately 11 am. Spanning 1,315 metres and soaring 359 metres above the Chenab River, this steel arch bridge has been engineered to withstand seismic and wind pressures. It is set to revolutionise travel between Jammu and Srinagar, slashing the Katra–Srinagar journey time to about three hours, a reduction of 2–3 hours.
As per the official communication, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, built to serve one of the country’s most challenging terrains. At around 12 noon, he will flag off two Vande Bharat Express trains connecting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar and back, enhancing travel for residents, tourists, and pilgrims alike.
Later in the day, PM Modi will dedicate the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project to the nation. Constructed at a cost of ₹43,780 crore, the 272-km long railway corridor features 36 tunnels (totaling 119 km) and 943 bridges. It aims to provide all-weather, seamless rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India—boosting regional integration and socio-economic development.
In a bid to enhance last-mile connectivity, particularly in border areas, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stones for several key road infrastructure projects. These include widening of the Rafiabad–Kupwara section of NH-701 and the construction of the Shopian bypass on NH-444, at a cumulative cost of over ₹1,952 crore and inauguration of two flyovers to ease traffic congestion—at Sangrama Junction (NH-1) and Bemina Junction (NH-44) in Srinagar.
In the healthcare sector, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Katra. With an investment of over ₹350 crore, the institute will be the first medical college in the Reasi district, significantly enhancing the region’s medical infrastructure.
The Prime Minister’s visit is poised to herald a new chapter in Jammu and Kashmir’s development trajectory, with a focus on robust infrastructure, improved connectivity, and enhanced quality of life for the region’s residents.
HIGHLIGHTS
Inauguration of Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge at 359 meters
Launch of India’s first cable-stayed Anji Bridge in challenging terrain
Flagging off two Vande Bharat Express trains between Katra & Srinagar
Dedication of the 272 km USBRL worth Rs 43,780 crore
Travel time between Katra & Srinagar to be reduced to 3 hrs
USBRL includes 36 tunnels spanning 119 km & 943 bridges ensuring all-weather connectivity
Foundation laying of road projects, including highway widening & flyovers
Foundation stone to be laid for Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, Katra
