PM inaugurates Chenab bridge – the world’s highest railway arch bridge and Anji bridge – India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge
The inauguration of mega infrastructure projects today marks a turning point in Jammu and Kashmir’s development journey: Modi
We have always invoked Maa Bharati with deep reverence, saying ‘from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.’ Today, this has become a reality even in our railway network: PM
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line Project is a symbol of a new, empowered Jammu & Kashmir and a resounding proclamation of India’s growing strength: Narendra Modi
The Chenab and Anji Bridges will serve as gateways to prosperity for Jammu and Kashmir: PM
Jammu and Kashmir is the crown jewel of India
India won’t bow to terrorism, the youth of Jammu and Kashmir have now made up their mind to give a befitting reply to terrorism
Whenever Pakistan hears the name Operation Sindoor, it will be reminded of its shameful defeat
NEW DELHI, JUNE 06, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over Rs 46,000 crore at Katra, Jammu & Kashmir today. Saluting the land of the brave Veer Zorawar Singh, he remarked that today’s event is a grand celebration of India’s unity and determination. Modi said that with the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi, the Valley of Kashmir is now connected to India’s vast railway network. “We have always invoked Maa Bharati with deep reverence, saying ‘from Kashmir to Kanyakumari,’ today, this has become a reality even in our railway network”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, emphasising that the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line Project is not just a name but a symbol of Jammu and Kashmir’s new strength and a testament to India’s growing capabilities. In line with the commitment to boost rail infrastructure and connectivity in the region, he inaugurated the Chenab and Anji rail bridges and flagged off Vande Bharat Trains, enhancing connectivity within Jammu and Kashmir. Additionally, Shri Modi also laid the foundation stone for a new medical college in Jammu, reinforcing the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare facilities in the region, stating that ₹46,000 crore worth of projects will accelerate development in Jammu and Kashmir, driving progress and prosperity. The Prime Minister extended his best wishes and congratulated the people on this new era of growth and transformation.
Underlining that generations in Jammu and Kashmir had long dreamt of railway connectivity, Shri Modi said today, that dream has become a reality. Referring to a recent statement by former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Prime Minister noted that even as a student in seventh or eighth grade, Shri Abdullah had been anticipating the completion of this project. Shri Modi emphasized that the fulfillment of this long-awaited aspiration marks a historic moment for millions of people in Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and progress.
Stating that it is a privilege for their government that this ambitious railway project gained momentum during their tenure and has now been successfully completed, Shri Modi emphasized the challenges encountered, like the difficult terrain, extreme weather conditions, and falling rocks in the mountains, making the project immensely tough and demanding. However, he remarked that their government has consistently chosen to face challenges head-on and overcome them with determination. The Prime Minister noted that numerous all-weather infrastructure projects underway in Jammu and Kashmir exemplify this commitment. He cited the recently opened Sonmarg Tunnel and his experience traveling over the Chenab Bridge and Anji Bridge as remarkable milestones. Shri Modi lauded the engineering brilliance and unwavering dedication of India’s engineers and workers, stating that the Chenab Bridge, the world’s tallest railway arch bridge, stands as a testament to India’s ambition. He observed that while people travel to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower, the Chenab Bridge surpasses it in height, making it not only a crucial infrastructure achievement but also an emerging tourist attraction. Similarly, the Prime Minister described the Anji Bridge as an engineering marvel, being India’s first cable-supported railway bridge. He asserted that these structures are not just steel and concrete, but living symbols of India’s strength, standing tall in the rugged Pir Panjal mountains. Shri Modi declared that these achievements represent India’s vision for a developed nation, proving that as grand as India’s dream of progress is, so too is its resilience, capability, and determination. Above all, he emphasized that pure intentions and relentless dedication are the driving forces behind India’s transformation.
Recalling that exactly one month ago, on this very night, India executed Operation Sindoor, delivering a decisive blow to Pakistan-based terrorists, the Prime Minister said, “whenever Pakistan hears the name of operation Sindoor, it will be reminded of its humiliating defeat”. He emphasized that Pakistan’s military and terror networks never anticipated India’s bold move, and within minutes, the terror infrastructure they had built over decades was reduced to ruins. Shri Modi stated that Pakistan was left in shock and frustration, reacting by targeting innocent civilians in Jammu, Poonch, and other districts. He condemned Pakistan’s brutal attacks, pointing out that the world witnessed how it destroyed homes, bombed schools and hospitals, and shelled temples, mosques, and gurudwaras. The Prime Minister praised the resilience of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, stating that their courage in facing Pakistan’s aggression has been seen by every Indian. He reaffirmed the commitment declaring that every citizen stands with full strength beside the families affected, ensuring unwavering support and solidarity.
Prime Minister made a special appeal to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, urging them to actively participate in India’s manufacturing revolution. He emphasized that Operation Sindoor demonstrated the strength of Atmanirbhar Bharat, and today, the world is recognizing India’s defense ecosystem. Attributing this success to the armed forces’ trust in ‘Make in India’, stating that every Indian must now emulate their commitment, the Prime Minister highlighted the Mission Manufacturing initiative, announced in this year’s budget, aimed at accelerating India’s manufacturing sector. Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir Omar Abdullah, Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, V. Somanna & Dr. Jitendra Singh were present among other dignitaries at the event.
Chenab and Anji rail bridges
The architectural marvel Chenab Rail Bridge, situated at a height of 359 meters above the river, is the world’s highest railway arch bridge. It is a 1,315-metre-long steel arch bridge engineered to withstand seismic and wind conditions. A key impact of the bridge will be in enhancing connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. Through Vande Bharat train moving on the bridge, it will take just about 3 hours to travel between Katra and Srinagar, reducing existing travel time by 2-3 hours.
The Anji Bridge is India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge that will serve the nation in a challenging terrain.
