Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jammu and Kashmir today to inaugurate a series of significant infrastructure projects valued at Rs 46 billion. These developments are set to enhance road and rail connectivity across the Union Territory, improving accessibility, promoting tourism, and generating employment opportunities.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi responded to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, stating: “6th June is indeed a special day for my sisters and brothers of Jammu and Kashmir. Key infrastructure projects worth Rs 46 billion are being inaugurated which will have a very positive impact on people’s lives.”

A highlight of the visit will be the inauguration of the Chenab Bridge — the world’s highest railway arch bridge — which stands 359 metres above the Chenab River. The 1,315-metre-long steel arch bridge is engineered to withstand seismic activity and high winds, and will reduce travel time between Jammu and Srinagar by two to three hours once the new Vande Bharat trains begin operations.

PM Modi will also inaugurate the Anji Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge constructed in difficult terrain. He will then flag off Vande Bharat Express trains operating between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Srinagar, improving travel options for residents, tourists, and pilgrims alike.

The Prime Minister will dedicate the 272-kilometre Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project to the nation. Completed at an approximate cost of Rs 44 billion, the rail link includes 36 tunnels covering 119 kilometres and 943 bridges, delivering seamless all-weather rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley.

In his message on X, PM Modi added: “In addition to being an extraordinary feat of architecture, the Chenab Rail Bridge will improve connectivity between Jammu and Srinagar. The Anji Bridge stands tall as India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge in challenging terrain.”

He further said, “The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project ensures all-weather connectivity and the Vande Bharat trains from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar will boost spiritual tourism and create livelihood opportunities.”

Beyond rail projects, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate road projects aimed at enhancing last-mile connectivity, particularly in border areas. These include the widening of the Rafiabad-Kupwara stretch on National Highway 701 and the construction of the Shopian bypass on National Highway 444, with a combined investment exceeding Rs 2 billion.

Two flyovers will also be inaugurated at Sangrama Junction on NH-1 in Srinagar and Bemina Junction on NH-44 to alleviate traffic congestion.

Additionally, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Katra. This Rs 350 million project will be the first medical college in the Reasi district, strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the region.