A trial run of the Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train on the newly constructed 46 km electrified line section between Reasi and Sangaldan was successfully conducted today as part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramula Rail Link (USBRL) project. The train traveled at a speed of 40 km/h.
The trial began at 12:35 pm from Sangaldan and concluded at Reasi at 2:05 pm, passing through nine tunnels with a combined length of 40.787 km. Among these, the longest tunnel, T-44, stretches for 11.13 km.
For the first time, a complete train traversed the iconic bridge between Dugga and Bakkal stations, crossing over the Chenab River. This bridge is recognized as the world’s highest railway bridge, boasting a central span of 467 meters and standing at an impressive height of 359 meters above the river.
In Reasi District, stations such as Reasi, Bakkal, Dugga, and Sawlakote have adopted advanced Railway Electrification using the Rigid Overhead Conductor System (ROCS) technology at 25 kV, marking a pioneering effort for Indian Railways.
Currently, railway services extend from Kanyakumari to Katra and from Baramulla to Sangaldan in the Kashmir Valley. The USBRL project, including the 48.1 km Banihal-Sangaldan section, is slated for completion by the end of the year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated this phase of the project on February 20, 2024.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed the success of the trial run in a post on X, stating, “Successful trial run of MEMU train between Sangaldan – Reasi section of USBRL project.”
The USBRL project has seen significant milestones in its phased execution. Phase I, covering the 118 km Qazigund-Baramulla section, was inaugurated in October 2009. This was followed by the 18 km Banihal-Qazigund section in June 2013 and the 25 km Udhampur-Katra section in July 2014.
The Chenab Rail Bridge, a key highlight of the project, stands 359 meters above the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir, making it 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower. Spanning 1,315 meters, this engineering marvel is integral to the broader initiative of integrating the Kashmir Valley with the Indian Railway network, significantly improving connectivity to the region.
(With inputs from ANI)