Anji Khad Bridge completes India's first cable-stayed rail connection
2025-01-07 11:14- The Anji Khad Bridge is located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.
- It features a significant cable-stayed span and innovative construction techniques.
- The bridge is expected to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth in the region.
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Insights
In India, a notable engineering achievement has been completed with the unveiling of the Anji Khad Bridge, the first cable-stayed rail bridge in the country. Located in the challenging landscape of the Reasi district in Jammu and Kashmir, this bridge is a significant part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project. At 725.5 meters long and rising 331 meters above the riverbed, the bridge is designed to withstand the complex geological and seismic challenges of the region. Its primary pylon reaches a height of 193 meters, providing not only structural support but also a striking visual feature in the landscape. One of the engineering highlights is its asymmetrical design, characterized by the use of 96 cables of varying lengths which contribute to the bridge’s stability. The bridge's construction was meticulously divided into four sections. Among them, a significant 473.25-meter cable-stayed span crosses over a deep valley, complemented by a shorter 120-meter ancillary viaduct on the Reasi side. The design includes a single railway line flanked by a 3.75-meter-wide service road and 1.5-meter-wide footpaths on either side, ensuring safety and accessibility for travelers. Notably, this engineering project has been built to endure wind speeds of up to 213 km/h while accommodating train speeds of 100 km/h. Cutting-edge construction techniques were employed, such as the DOKA jump form shuttering system and the utilization of a specialized 40-tonne tower crane imported from Spain, resulting in a safety and efficiency boost that reduced construction time by approximately 30%. Additionally, the Anji Khad Bridge incorporates an integrated monitoring system equipped with advanced sensors to ensure its structural integrity throughout its operational lifespan. This monitoring capability reflects a growing trend in engineering where maintenance and safety are prioritized during construction planning. As a result, the completion of this bridge is poised to greatly enhance rail connectivity between Katra and the Kashmir Valley, promising significant economic and tourism-related benefits for the region. The Anji Khad Bridge stands not only as an infrastructural milestone but also signifies a transformative step towards improving the socio-economic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. As the railway network expands through formidable terrains, it represents an enduring commitment to connect remote areas of the country and boost local economies, appealing to both commuters and tourists alike.
Contexts
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Project (USBRL) is a significant infrastructural endeavor in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It aims to connect the northern regions of the country, enhancing transportation and accessibility. The project is critical for regional integration, economic development, and ensuring that remote areas can receive essential services and trade opportunities. The railway line, once completed, will not only promote tourism but also contribute to the socio-economic upliftment of the people in the region. With various terrains to navigate, including hilly and difficult landscapes, the challenge of constructing this railway link has been addressed through innovative engineering solutions and advanced technology, ensuring safety and sustainability. The USBRL stretches over approximately 272 kilometers and is being constructed in several segments. The Udhampur to Katra segment and the Katra to Anantnag segment have already been operationalized, while further sections are in varying stages of completion. The overall vision of the project encompasses connecting the entire region from Udhampur to Baramulla, effectively facilitating better movement of goods and people. Not only does it connect major towns and cities, but it also serves remote locales that have been underserved due to geographical constraints. The Indian government has made it a priority to complete the project expeditiously, owing to its strategic importance and immense potential for development. The USBRL project is significant for national security as well, given the sensitivity of the region. By establishing a reliable transportation infrastructure, the Indian government aims to improve the logistics capability for military and relief operations in times of need. Frequent connectivity will also deter insurgent activities by promoting stability through increased civilian presence and infrastructure development. The railway line will also alleviate traffic congestion on road networks and reduce travel times, thereby improving the quality of life for residents. This enhanced connectivity will lead to a vibrant local economy, as trade routes become more accessible. In conclusion, the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Project stands as a transformative initiative that has the potential to reshape the socio-economic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. Its completion translates into a vital channel not only for transportation and commerce but also for fostering unity, peace, and resilience within the region. As the project progresses, it becomes ever more apparent that effective rail connectivity will be instrumental in bridging the gap between isolated communities and the broader Indian economy, resulting in long-lasting benefits for the population.
