Chenab Rail Bridge: A Historic Engineering Achievement Connecting Kashmir
Overview of the Chenab Rail Bridge
Vikal Sharma
Located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Chenab Rail Bridge is recognized as the highest railway arch bridge in the world, exceeding the height of the Eiffel Tower by 35 meters. This impressive structure spans 1,315 meters and is designed with a combination of steel and concrete to endure severe weather and seismic events, marking a significant milestone in India's railway infrastructure.
Engineering Excellence in Difficult Conditions
The bridge boasts a steel arch measuring 785 meters in length, complemented by a 530-meter approach bridge. It plays a vital role in the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), which is essential for connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India by rail, thereby promoting national integration.
Construction took nearly ten years, with the arch completed in 2021, the bridge finalized in 2022, and trial operations set to commence in 2024. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the bridge on June 6, 2025, reinforcing its importance in India's infrastructure development.
Durability and Safety Features
Engineered to withstand winds of up to 266 km/h and seismic activities, the Chenab Rail Bridge is among the most robust railway structures worldwide. It is designed to resist explosions equivalent to 40 kg of TNT, ensuring passenger safety and strategic importance.
With an expected lifespan of 120 years, trains will travel at speeds of up to 100 km/h, enhancing connectivity between Kashmir and other regions of India. The construction utilized approximately 25,000 tonnes of metal, nearly three times the amount used for the Eiffel Tower, with a total investment of ₹1,486 crore (around $180 million).
A Beacon of Development
Recent satellite and ground images reveal the stunning steel arch of the bridge, dramatically positioned amidst towering mountains over the Chenab River. This breathtaking view emphasizes both its architectural elegance and strategic relevance.
The Chenab Rail Bridge represents not only an engineering triumph but also a testament to India's commitment to infrastructure growth, resilience, and unity. As regular train services commence, it heralds a new chapter in railway transport, enhancing regional connectivity and fostering economic development in the Himalayan region.