Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Nears Completion, Promises Seamless Connectivity

Srinagar – The eagerly anticipated Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project is on the brink of completion, marking a major milestone in India’s railway history. General Manager of Northern Railway, Ashok Kumar Verma, announced on Tuesday that the final touches, including the completion of the Reasi Tunnel, are expected to be finished within a week.

Verma, during his visit to Qazigund, described the project as a testament to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of seamless connectivity from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. “The work is in its final stages, and inspections by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) are set to commence within the next 15 days,” he said.

Progress Update

The project, which has faced numerous logistical and geographical challenges, is now in its last phase. Tunnel T1 and track installations are almost complete, with electrical works expected to wrap up within the next 10-15 days. CRS inspections, a critical step before operationalizing any new rail section, are anticipated in early January.

Although the exact launch date for the Jammu-Srinagar train service remains undecided, Verma expressed optimism that services could begin as early as the first or second week of January.

Bridging Kashmir to the Nation

Reflecting on the significance of the project, Verma, who worked in the region from 2003 to 2006, called it a “dream come true.” He highlighted the transformative potential of the rail link in integrating Kashmir with the rest of India. “Soon, trains here will be no different from those running in other parts of the country,” he remarked.

Future Prospects and Security Measures

Verma also touched upon the possibility of introducing the Vande Bharat Express on the route, stating that decisions on stops will be driven by passenger demand and footfall at stations.

On security concerns, he assured that robust measures are in place to safeguard the tracks, trains, and passengers. “This project is not just about infrastructure but about fostering trust and connectivity. We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure its smooth and successful implementation,” he said.

A New Era for Kashmir

As the USBRL project inches closer to reality, it promises to usher in a new era of development, accessibility, and economic growth for the Kashmir region. The rail link is poised to become a lifeline, connecting the valley with the rest of the country and paving the way for future advancements in transportation and commerce.

The completion of the USBRL will be a historic moment, not just for Indian Railways but for the entire nation, as it realizes a long-cherished vision of seamless rail connectivity.

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Hi, I am Sajjad Rehman, the Chief Editor of Geo National News. With over 4 years of experience in news content writing, I have honed my skills in delivering accurate, engaging, and timely news. As a passionate writer, I am dedicated to creating content that informs, educates, and keeps readers updated on current events. My journey in the world of journalism continues to inspire me to craft compelling narratives and bring news stories to life.