Transforming Connectivity: Modi Unveils Game-Changing Rail Project Linking Kashmir with India’s Heartland

NEW DELHI (AP) — Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently unveiled a groundbreaking railway project in India. This new line connects the Kashmir Valley to the Indian plains for the very first time.

Spanning 272 kilometers (169 miles), the railway runs from Udhampur in Jammu to Srinagar, and finally to Baramulla, just near the Line of Control that divides India and Pakistan. This route is touted as one of the most challenging in the world, featuring 36 tunnels and over 943 bridges. The project has been estimated to cost around $5 billion.

A standout feature of the railway is a remarkable bridge above the Chenab River. This steel and concrete structure is 1,315 meters long and rises 359 meters above the water, comparable in height to the Eiffel Tower. Built to last 120 years, this bridge can withstand extreme weather, including winds up to 260 kph (161 mph).

During the inauguration, PM Modi waved the Indian tri-color flag before testing out the train. He also launched new trains called “Vande Bharat,” which will reduce travel time between Srinagar and Katra from six to about three hours.

This visit comes on the heels of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, following a recent military conflict where both countries exchanged missiles and drones. The roots of this conflict trace back to a deadly attack that occurred in late April, targeting mainly Hindu tourists in Kashmir. India accused Pakistan of harboring the attackers, a claim Islamabad denies.

In a public speech in Katra, Modi criticized Pakistan, alleging its involvement in the violence aimed at destabilizing tourism in Kashmir. He reassured the public that developmental efforts would continue in the region.

The railway project is seen as pivotal for bolstering tourism and economic development in an area long troubled by militancy. With better connectivity, it aims to facilitate the movement of both troops and civilians, replacing the current reliance on flights and precarious mountain roads.

Historically, Kashmir has been a contentious area. Both India and Pakistan claim complete control over the region, leading to ongoing strife since 1989 as various groups advocate for independence or alignment with Pakistan. This conflict has cost tens of thousands of lives, encompassing civilians, rebels, and government forces.

The railway not only symbolizes a significant investment in infrastructure but also offers a glimmer of hope for peace and prosperity in a region longing for stability.

For more detailed insights into the Kashmir conflict and its implications, visit the Council on Foreign Relations.

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Narendra Modi,Kashmir Valley,Indian Railways,Indian-controlled Kashmir,Indian plains,India and Pakistan,Jammu region,Kashmir militancy