Chenab Bridge makes history: Vande Bharat Rai Rai sung for the first time

In a historic milestone for India’s railway network, the Vande Bharat Express was seen crossing the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, in Jammu and Kashmir. This remarkable sight, shared by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on social media, marks a major step toward fulfilling the dream of connecting Kashmir to the rest of India by rail. The video also captured the train passing over the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, garnering widespread attention and admiration online.

History Created 🇮🇳 Vande Bharat Crossing World's Highest Rail Bridge aka The Chenab Bridge for the first time ever 🤩🔥🇮🇳 #IndianRailways #VandeBharat pic.twitter.com/Zt2C8we1kx

— Trains of India (@trainwalebhaiya) January 25, 2025

A Game-Changer for the Region

The rail connectivity to Kashmir is expected to transform the region by boosting tourism, trade, horticulture, education, and travel. The all-weather, modern railway service will offer reliable and comfortable transport, particularly during winter when snow and rain often disrupt road travel along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway.

Internet Reacts to the Achievement

Social media users were quick to applaud the achievement. Many described the feat as an inspiration for the nation, emphasizing how much easier it will be to travel to Kashmir from any part of India. Others hailed the project as a foundation stone for a developed and globally competitive India.

Trial Run and Engineering Marvels

The Indian Railways successfully completed a trial run of the Vande Bharat train on Saturday. The train’s route connects Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) station to Srinagar, passing over the engineering marvels of the Chenab Bridge and the Anji Khad Bridge. The train has been specially designed to operate in the challenging climatic conditions of the Kashmir Valley.

When Will Passenger Services Begin?

The inaugural passenger service of the Vande Bharat train on this route is scheduled for February. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the service, flagging off the train from Katra railway station. This long-awaited rail connectivity promises to enhance the convenience and accessibility of travel to the Kashmir Valley, further integrating it with the rest of the country.

This milestone is not just a leap in engineering but a testament to India’s growing aspirations and determination to overcome challenges, making regional development a national priority.