The inauguration of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project in Jammu & Kashmir, along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's walk in Katra carrying the tricolor flag, is not just a historic moment but a testament to India's strategic, political, and economic prowess. This event sends a clear message to the world community, including Pakistan, on multiple levels. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Chenab Bridge and Anji Bridge in Jammu & Kashmir. Additionally, he flagged off the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train. The Chenab Bridge is the world's highest railway arch bridge, providing all-season rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India, reducing travel time to Srinagar. This is Modi's first visit to Kashmir following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where he unveiled transformative projects totaling ₹46,000 crores. His presence on the newly-built rail bridge with the tricolor must surely unsettle neighboring Pakistan. Let us explore how today's program by PM Modi has become a thorn in the side, not just for Pakistan, but also for China and the USA.
Inauguration of Rail Link: A Technical and Strategic Milestone
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project is one of India's most complex and ambitious engineering feats. With the final phase opening of the Katra-Sangaldan section and the Chenab Bridge, Jammu & Kashmir is now connected to the rest of the country year-round, an improvement over the frequently closed road routes during winters.
For India, this rail line is significant in many ways. The Chenab Bridge is the world's tallest railway bridge, constructed 359 meters over the Chenab River in Seismic Zone 5, making it a remarkable technical achievement. The bridge stands 35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower and is designed to last 120 years. Indian engineers employed state-of-the-art technology during its construction, showcasing India's impressive technical capacity, a feat currently beyond Pakistan.
With the commencement of two new Vande Bharat trains from Katra to Srinagar, the region will enjoy fast and comfortable connectivity. This development will ease travel for tourists and locals alike, boosting economic growth.
Message to Pakistan and the World:
This rail link and the Chenab Bridge exhibit India's technical and strategic strength, demonstrating its commitment to strengthening infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir and integrating it with the mainstream, a response to Pakistan's separatist and terrorist activities. Additionally, this tells Pakistan how far India has advanced. While Pakistan still relies on Chinese goodwill for such undertakings, this project showcases India's engineering and innovation capabilities on the global stage, solidifying its image as an emerging global power.
PM's Stroll with the Tricolor: A Symbolic and Political Signal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's walk on the Chenab Bridge carrying the tricolor is a powerful symbolic move. It is not just a ceremonial act but a clear message of India's sovereignty and unity, crucial in recent contexts. Despite Pakistan's claims over Kashmir, Modi's walk demonstrates India's unity and resolve. This step gains importance in light of recent events. The chosen government in Kashmir acknowledges what the British couldn't achieve, the Modi government has accomplished. The joy of Kashmir's people was palpable.
In response to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India's army launched Operation Sindoor. Modi's tricolor walk in Kashmir illustrates India's resilience against terrorism.
Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Jammu & Kashmir is now equal to other Indian states. Modi's move reinforces this policy, emphasizing Jammu & Kashmir as an integral part of India.
Message to Pakistan and the World:
This is a direct message that India will not compromise on its sovereignty in Jammu & Kashmir. The tricolor walk symbolizes India's determination against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and separatist propaganda. It communicates to the global community India's capability and commitment to defending its regional and national interests.
Economic and Social Impact, Regional Integration
The rail link inauguration marks a milestone in Jammu & Kashmir's economic progress, linking the region to the country and integrating it into the mainstream. Katra, a major center due to the Vaishno Devi Temple, attracts millions of devotees annually. Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley are world-famous for tourism. Improved rail connectivity will increase tourist numbers, strengthening the local economy.
Better rail connectivity will facilitate the distribution of local products like apples, saffron, and handicrafts to other parts of the country, benefiting local traders and farmers. The rail link will create a stronger connection with other regions, reducing the feeling of isolation. It will provide youth with better education and employment opportunities.
Message to Pakistan and the World:
This rail link and its development reject Pakistan's portrayal of Jammu & Kashmir as separate and underdeveloped. It shows that India is working towards peace, stability, and prosperity in Jammu & Kashmir through development, not just military measures.
