Chenab Bridge Inauguration: PM Modi's Big Message to Pakistan, Terror Cannot Derail Development

Prime Minister Narendra Modi (PM Modi) visited Jammu and Kashmir on Friday for the first time since the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead. The trip marked the launch of several key infrastructure projects, including the much-delayed Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL) and the historic Chenab Rail Bridge.

The message from Modi is that development in Kashmir won’t be stopped by violence. Alongside inaugurating new railway routes, he flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains and inspected India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge at Anji Khad.

PM Narendra Modi Won’t Let India’s Growth Stop Amid Pak’s Terror

The timing of the visit was significant. It came just weeks after a deadly terror attack rocked the region. Modi’s presence in Jammu and Kashmir also followed the start of Operation Sindoor, a mission targeting terrorist networks along the Line of Control.

Modi said in his Mann Ki Baat radio programme, "In this war against terrorism, the unity of the country, the solidarity of 140 crore Indians is our biggest strength.” He warned that those responsible for such acts will face the severest punishment.

The visit also sent a signal across the border. With Pakistan-based groups often linked to violence in Kashmir, Modi’s message was that India’s infrastructure goals will move forward, no matter the threats.

Chenab Bridge And USBRL

The star project of the day was the Chenab Rail Bridge. Built 359 metres above the Chenab River in Reasi, the structure is taller than the Eiffel Tower and now holds the title of the world’s highest railway arch bridge. The bridge, built to withstand extreme weather and earthquakes, cost Rs 1,486 crore and took decades to complete.

PM Modi took a train ride from the Chenab Bridge to Katra, during which he also checked out the Anji Khad Bridge, the country’s first cable-stayed rail bridge. At Katra, he flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains connecting Katra and Baramulla. These trains will operate six days a week starting June 7.

The full USBRL project took shape over several governments. Sanctioned in 1994 and pushed forward under the Vajpayee administration in 2002, the final 46-km stretch was completed in December 2024. The route includes difficult terrain, tunnels, and bridges, making it one of the most complex railway builds in India.

How It Will Boost Tourism And Local Trade

The new rail line has over 900 bridges and 36 tunnels, with the Katra-Banihal stretch alone made up of 87% tunnel work. Tunnel T-50 is now India’s longest railway tunnel at nearly 13 km. All major tunnels and bridges include modern safety features like fire-resistant materials and CCTV surveillance.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said, "We are making a total of five terminals between Baramulla and Jammu. This will significantly ease the transportation of fruits, handicrafts and other goods."

Kashmir’s tourism and trade are expected to get a boost. A recent pilot project transporting cherries by train showed positive results, and similar efforts for other produce are in the pipeline.