Vande Bharat Express Launch Delayed, USBRL Project Awaits Formal Inauguration
Srinagar, 15 April 2015: A High-Profile Visit Deferred
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s much-anticipated visit to Jammu and Kashmir, scheduled for April 19, to inaugurate the Vande Bharat Express on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) has been postponed. Officials confirmed the delay on Monday, citing no specific reasons, though reports suggest logistical challenges and adverse weather forecasts may have contributed to the decision.
USBRL: A Landmark Project
The USBRL project, spanning 272 kilometers, is a monumental infrastructure initiative aimed at revolutionizing rail connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. It includes 119 kilometers of tunnels and connects key regions such as Udhampur, Reasi, Ramban, Anantnag, Pulwama, Budgam, Srinagar, and Baramulla.
Two engineering marvels—the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, and the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge—are integral to the project. The Chenab Bridge, standing at 467 meters, is 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower and designed to withstand earthquakes up to magnitude 8.
Vande Bharat Express: A Technological Marvel
The Vande Bharat Express, specially designed for the sub-zero temperatures of the Kashmir Valley, is already stationed at Katra. The train features eight fully air-conditioned coaches equipped with advanced heating systems, infotainment displays, CCTV surveillance, and automatic plug doors.
Although capable of speeds up to 160 km/h, the train will operate at a limited speed of 85 km/h between Katra and Srinagar, as per the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) approval. The journey is expected to reduce travel time between the two cities to just three hours, compared to the current 6–7 hours by road.
Project Timeline and Challenges
Approved in 1994–95 and declared a National Project in 2002, the USBRL has been completed in phases:
- Qazigund–Baramulla (2009)
- Banihal–Qazigund (2013)
- Udhampur–Katra (2014)
- Banihal–Sangaldan (2020)
The final stretch, Katra–Sangaldan, posed significant engineering challenges due to its rugged terrain and high-seismic zone location. Despite these hurdles, the project is now ready for operations, with trial runs successfully conducted.
Looking Ahead
While the postponement of the Prime Minister’s visit has delayed the formal inauguration, officials remain optimistic about the project’s impact. The USBRL is expected to boost trade, tourism, and connectivity in the region, symbolizing progress and integration for Jammu and Kashmir.
