Railway Minister updates on challenging USBRL project transforming J&K

22 Dec 2023 CW Team

Detailing the USBRL project's scope, he revealed that 161 km out of the total 272 km had already been commissioned. Emphasising the challenges, Vaishnaw highlighted the predominantly tunneled Katra-Banihal section, with 87% of its 111 km length submerged in tunnels. Notably, the T-49 tunnel is set to become the country's longest transportation railway tunnel at 12.77 km.

Discussing key achievements, Vaishnaw mentioned the world's highest Railway Bridge over the Chenab River and the first cable-stayed bridge over AnjiKhad. Additionally, he informed the Lok Sabha about the sanctioned final location survey for various lines, including the doubling of Baramulla-Banihal section and new lines for Baramulla-Uri, Sopore-Kupwara, Awantipora-Shopian, and Anantnag-Bijbehara-Pahalgam.

Highlighting the socio-economic contributions, Vaishnaw underscored the USBRL project's impact on employment generation, generating over 553 lakh man-days of indirect employment. The construction of 215 km of approach roads, a tunnel, and 320 small bridges has furthered development efforts.

On the operational front, Vaishnaw noted that nine pairs of trains currently operate over the Kashmir valley section, reducing travel time and improving passenger experience. Safety measures in line with international norms were emphasised, including mechanical ventilation systems in tunnels, fire fighting provisions, and the escorting of trains by RPF staff.

Vaishnaw concluded by asserting that the rail line expansion is positively transforming the region, benefiting local communities and businesses through enhanced transportation, connectivity, tourism, and the facilitation of goods and services movement.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the formidable nature of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, deeming it perhaps the most challenging railway endeavour in the country post-Independence. Addressing queries from BJP MPs Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, Bidyut Baran Mahato, and Jugal Kishore Sharma about the railway network expansion in Jammu and Kashmir, Vaishnaw provided insights into the progress and impact of the project. Detailing the USBRL project's scope, he revealed that 161 km out of the total 272 km had already been commissioned. Emphasising the challenges, Vaishnaw highlighted the predominantly tunneled Katra-Banihal section, with 87% of its 111 km length submerged in tunnels. Notably, the T-49 tunnel is set to become the country's longest transportation railway tunnel at 12.77 km. Discussing key achievements, Vaishnaw mentioned the world's highest Railway Bridge over the Chenab River and the first cable-stayed bridge over AnjiKhad. Additionally, he informed the Lok Sabha about the sanctioned final location survey for various lines, including the doubling of Baramulla-Banihal section and new lines for Baramulla-Uri, Sopore-Kupwara, Awantipora-Shopian, and Anantnag-Bijbehara-Pahalgam. Highlighting the socio-economic contributions, Vaishnaw underscored the USBRL project's impact on employment generation, generating over 553 lakh man-days of indirect employment. The construction of 215 km of approach roads, a tunnel, and 320 small bridges has furthered development efforts. On the operational front, Vaishnaw noted that nine pairs of trains currently operate over the Kashmir valley section, reducing travel time and improving passenger experience. Safety measures in line with international norms were emphasised, including mechanical ventilation systems in tunnels, fire fighting provisions, and the escorting of trains by RPF staff. Vaishnaw concluded by asserting that the rail line expansion is positively transforming the region, benefiting local communities and businesses through enhanced transportation, connectivity, tourism, and the facilitation of goods and services movement.

Resources

09 Mar 2026

Haworth India Hosts Women’s Leadership Panel Series

Haworth India marked International Women’s Day by hosting a leadership roundtable series titled ‘Give to Gain’, bringing together senior women leaders from architecture and design firms, corporates and project management consultancies. The series has been conducted in Delhi and Mumbai, with upcoming sessions scheduled in Bengaluru and Hyderabad on 27 March 2026. Structured as moderated panel discussions followed by audience interaction, the initiative examined the business impact of women’s leadership and the role of inclusive workplaces in supporting professional growth. Manish Khan..

Real Estate

09 Mar 2026

Max Estates Secures RERA For Max One Project

Max Estates has secured RERA approval (UPRERA No.: UPRERAPRJ9759) for its Max One development around Max Towers in Sector 16B, Noida, bringing renewed progress to a project previously stalled following the insolvency of its earlier developer. Spread across around 10 acres with an estimated development potential of about 2.5 million sq ft, Max One is planned as an integrated mixed-use campus combining serviced residences, premium offices, retail spaces and a private club. The project is expected to generate total sales potential of about Rs 20 billion along with an estimated annuity rental inc..

Real Estate

09 Mar 2026

Hindware Introduces Starc Smart Wall Mount Toilet

Hindware has introduced the Starc Smart Wall-Mount Toilet under its Hindware Italian Collection, designed to combine automation, hygiene and contemporary bathroom aesthetics. The model features automatic flushing, sensor-based seat opening and closing, and remote-controlled functions. It also includes an oscillating water spray and warm air dryer for cleaning, along with a self-cleaning nozzle designed to maintain hygiene. Additional features include adjustable heated seating, customisable water temperature and pressure settings, a foot-touch flush system and an LCD control interface. The wa..