In a major stride towards establishing seamless direct rail connectivity between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India, General Manager of Northern Railway Rajesh Kumar Pandey conducted an extensive two-day inspection across key sections of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
Pandey inspected the Katra–Srinagar rail link, followed by a detailed review of the Budgam–Baramulla stretch on Monday, accompanied by Divisional Railway Manager Jammu Vivek Kumar and senior officials. The visit focused on assessing on-ground progress, operational readiness, and the final push required to make the long-awaited direct rail link a reality.
Giving top priority to safety in the region’s challenging terrain, the General Manager carried out a thorough inspection of railway tracks, tunnels and bridges to ensure the infrastructure met stringent safety standards ahead of full-scale operations.
He also reviewed key railway stations across the Valley, including those being upgraded under the Amrit Bharat Scheme, such as Budgam, with special emphasis on passenger amenities—considered crucial for handling the anticipated surge in travel once direct connectivity is operational.
As part of the inspection, Pandey examined critical engineering landmarks, including the Anji Khad Bridge and the iconic Chenab Bridge, both vital to completing the connectivity corridor. He further reviewed operations at the Anantnag Goods Terminal, highlighting the importance of freight movement in boosting the region’s economy once the link is fully functional.
During interactions with officials, the General Manager stressed strict adherence to timelines and zero compromise on safety, directing that all pending works be expedited to ensure early completion of the project.
The inspection is being seen as a crucial step towards the commissioning of the USBRL project, which, for the first time, will connect Kashmir directly to the national railway network, transforming mobility, trade and tourism in the region.
Reaffirming the commitment of Northern Railway, Pandey said efforts are being intensified to deliver a safe, efficient and world-class rail network that brings the Kashmir Valley closer to the rest of the country.