Chenab Railway Bridge, Kashmir Valley – World’s Highest Rail Bridge in the Heart of India
The Chenab Railway Bridge in the Kashmir Valley stands as a marvel of modern engineering and a symbol of India’s ambition. Spanning the deep gorge of the Chenab River in Jammu & Kashmir, this bridge is the world’s highest railway arch bridge, even taller than the Eiffel Tower.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring the beauty of Kashmir, a train enthusiast, or someone passionate about India’s infrastructure triumphs, the Chenab Bridge deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list.
Here is a concise construction timeline of the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, built in Jammu and Kashmir, India:
moments highlighted in bold for clarity and emphasis:
🏗️ Chenab Bridge Construction Timeline (2004 – 2025)
World’s highest railway arch bridge | Reasi District, Jammu & Kashmir
| Year | Key Developments | Railway Minister |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Project foundation laid as part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). | Lalu Prasad Yadav |
| 2005–2007 | Surveys and environmental clearances completed. Alignment and feasibility finalized. | Lalu Prasad Yadav |
| 2008 | Initial site construction began. | Lalu Prasad Yadav |
| 2009 | Work halted due to seismic and wind safety concerns. | Mamata Banerjee |
| 2010 | Redesigned and construction resumed with improved safety standards. | Mamata Banerjee |
| 2011 | Foundation and pier construction began; steel fabrication started off-site. | Dinesh Trivedi / Mamata Banerjee |
| 2012 | Tall pylons and cable crane systems installed on both banks. | Mukul Roy |
| 2013 | Construction of arch segments from both banks using cantilever method. | Mukul Roy |
| 2014 | Arch construction advanced across Chenab gorge. | Sadananda Gowda |
| 2015–2016 | Steady progress on arch and approach viaducts. | Suresh Prabhu |
| 2017 | Main steel arch erection began — major engineering phase. | Suresh Prabhu |
| 2018–2020 | Arch segments advanced toward crown in harsh terrain. | Piyush Goyal |
| April 5, 2021 | Arch closure completed — both ends met at the crown, forming full arch. | Piyush Goyal |
| 2022 | Golden Joint welded (August 13, 2022) — deck completely connected. | Ashwini Vaishnaw |
| December 2022 | Track laying across the bridge completed. | Ashwini Vaishnaw |
| March 2023 | Load and safety testing completed successfully. | Ashwini Vaishnaw |
| July 2023 | First trial movement of rail-mounted vehicle across the bridge. | Ashwini Vaishnaw |
| March 2024 | Bridge declared ready for train operations. | Ashwini Vaishnaw |
| June 6, 2025 | Officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Katra–Srinagar Vande Bharat Express launched. Anji Khad Bridge also inaugurated. |
Ashwini Vaishnaw |
Quick Facts about Chenab Railway Bridge
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Reasi District, Jammu & Kashmir, India |
| River Spanned | Chenab River |
| Height Above Riverbed | 359 meters (1,178 feet) |
| Length | 1,315 meters |
| Bridge Type | Steel Arch |
| Status | Operational (2024) |
| Part of | Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL)- Kashmir Train Travel |
Why Visit the Chenab Bridge in Kashmir Valley?
✅ Engineering Icon
At 359 meters, the Chenab Bridge is taller than the Eiffel Tower. It’s the tallest railway bridge in the world, using blast-proof and earthquake-resistant technology—an architectural masterpiece in the rugged terrain of the Himalayas.
✅ Breathtaking Location
Set amidst the pristine valleys of Reasi and surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, the bridge offers panoramic views of the Chenab River, making it a paradise for landscape photographers and nature lovers.
✅ India’s Mega Connectivity Project
This bridge is a vital link in the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Line, connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India. It’s more than a bridge—it’s a lifeline for the region’s economy and accessibility.
How to Reach Chenab Railway Bridge
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Nearest Town: Katra (40 km away)
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By Road: Accessible by taxi or local transport from Jammu, Reasi, or Katra.
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By Rail: Udhampur to Reasi stretch now supports rail travel. Completion of the Katra-Banihal line with the Chenab Bridge enables direct rail access into the Kashmir Valley.
Travel Tip: The best way to witness the bridge is via a train ride across it. As of 2024, Indian Railways has launched trial passenger services, with full operations expected soon.
When to Visit
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Best Time: March to October
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Avoid: Peak winter due to heavy snowfall and fog
Nearby Tourist Attractions
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Vaishno Devi Temple (Katra)
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Bhimgarh Fort, Reasi
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Shiv Khori Cave Shrine
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Patnitop Hill Station
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Sanasar Lake and Adventure Park
Photography & Drone Use
While the area is partially restricted due to security and structural safety, designated viewpoints around Reasi offer excellent photo opportunities. Drone flying requires prior permission from local authorities.
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FAQ – Chenab Bridge Tourism
Q1: Is the Chenab Railway Bridge open to tourists?
➡️ The bridge is not open for walking tours, but train journeys and nearby viewpoints offer the best experience.
Q2: Can I photograph the bridge?
➡️ Yes, from safe distances or tourist viewpoints. No drone footage without clearance.
Q3: Which trains will cross the Chenab Bridge?
➡️ Passenger trains on the Katra–Banihal section of the USBRL project will cross it once fully operational.
Q4: Is the bridge safe?
➡️ Absolutely. Built with advanced engineering to withstand high winds, earthquakes, and even blasts.
Final Thoughts
The Chenab Railway Bridge in the Kashmir Valley is not just a railway link—it’s an emblem of India’s engineering prowess and national pride. Whether you’re planning a spiritual visit to Vaishno Devi or exploring hidden gems of Jammu & Kashmir, don’t miss this architectural wonder.
📍Add it to your Kashmir itinerary today.
