Udhampur-Baramulla rail link faces delay; inauguration pushed to July

26 Feb 2024 CW Team

The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, pivotal for connecting Kashmir with India via rail, confronts delays, pushing its inauguration to July due to infrastructure challenges.

Initially envisioned as a grand launch with the potential introduction of the Vande Bharat Express travelling from Udhampur to Baramulla via the iconic Chenab Bridge, the USBRL's 272 km network faces setbacks. Ongoing tunnelling work around the Chenab Bridge contributes to the delay.

While the Chenab Bridge, towering at 359 m and taller than the Eiffel Tower, stands ready, tunnelling work surrounding the bridge persists. The entire route will be operational in July, postponing the initial February deadline.

Union Railway Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, cited the formidable Himalayan terrain's geological complexities and hurdles in the Lok Sabha.

Recently, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated several railway projects in Jammu and Kashmir, including the 48 km railway line between Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangaldan and the electrified Baramulla-Srinagar-Banihal-Sangaldan section spanning 185.66 km. The inauguration also included the first electric train service in the Kashmir valley and the train service between Sangaldan and Baramulla stations.

Partial commissioning of the USBRL, notably the Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangaldan section, is significant, featuring the Ballast Less Track (BLT), promising enhanced travel experiences. India's longest transportation tunnel, T-50 (12.77 km), lies within the Khari-Sumber stretch.

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..