Katra: To take connectivity and infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir to new heights, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of several important development projects at the Shrine Board and 39 Sports Stadium, Katra.
The highlight of the event was the inauguration of the Chenab Bridge – the world’s tallest railway arch bridge, a wonderful example of India’s engineering capability. Along with this, the Prime Minister also inaugurated India’s first railway cable-stayed bridge, Anji Khad Bridge.
A four-lane flyover at the Bemina Junction bypass on NH-44 in Srinagar and Sangram Chowk (NH-01) was also inaugurated to ease urban traffic.
The projects for which PM Modi laid the foundation stone include:
- Rafiabad–Kupwara–Trehgam Section (NH-701)
- Shopian Bypass (NH-444)
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME), Katra
The PM dedicated to the nation the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project, which fully connects the Kashmir Valley with the Indian Railways network.
On this historic occasion, the PM flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains:
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Srinagar
- Srinagar to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra
These projects will boost tourism, ease traffic, strengthen trade, and provide better healthcare and connectivity to the people. This event is a strong step towards a “Developed India”.