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{{Short description|Indian railway steel arch bridge, Jammu and Kashmir}}
{{Short description|Railway bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, India}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2018}}
{{good article}}
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2025}}
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2025}}
{{Infobox bridge
{{Infobox bridge
|bridge_name = Chenab Rail Bridge
|bridge_name = Chenab Rail Bridge
|native_name =  
|native_name =  
|native_name_lang =  
|native_name_lang =  
|image =
|image = Chenab Rail Bridge, Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir, India.jpg
|image_size =  
|image_size = 300px
|alt =  
|alt =  
|caption =  
|caption = Chenab Rail Bridge in 2023
|official_name =  
|official_name =  
|other_name =  
|other_name =  
|carries = [[Indian Railways]]
|carries = Trains
|crosses = [[Chenab River]] between Bakkal and Kauri
|crosses = [[Chenab River]]
|locale =  
|locale = [[Reasi district]], [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]]
|maint =  
|design = [[Deck arch bridge]]
|id =  
|designer = {{bullet list|[[WSP Global|WSP Finland]]|[[:de:Leonhardt, Andrä und Partner|Leonhardt, Andrä und Partner]]|Vienna Consulting Engineers|[[Defence Research & Development Organization]]|[[Indian Institute of Science]]}}
|designer =  
|owner = [[Indian Railways]]
|design = Arch Bridge
|maint = Indian Railways
|builder = <!--Afocons Construction-->
|builder = {{bullet list|[[Afcons Infrastructure]]|Ultra Construction|[[VSL International|VSL India]]}}
|material = Steel and Concrete
|material = Steel and concrete
|pierswater =  
|cost = {{INRconvert|14.86|b}}
|length = {{convert|1315|m|ft|abbr=on}}<ref name="SF">{{cite web|url=http://www.konkanrailway.com/website/tender/annexure1.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031208010318/http://www.konkanrailway.com/website/tender/annexure1.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=2003-12-08|work=Official Webpage of the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited|title=Salient Features of the Chenab and Anji Khad Bridges|accessdate=2008-08-14}}</ref>
|length = {{cvt|1315|m}}
|width =
|width = {{cvt|13.5|m}}
|height = (river bed to formation) {{convert|359|m|ft|abbr=on}}<ref name="SF"/>
|height = {{cvt|359|m}}
|mainspan = {{convert|467|m|ft|abbr=on}}
|mainspan = {{cvt|467|m}}
|spans = 17
|spans = 17
|load =  
|inaugurated = {{start date and age|df=yes|2022|08|13}}
|clearance =  
|open = {{start date and age|df=yes|2025|06|06}}
|below =
|traffic =
|begin =
|opening = December 2022<ref name=Marvel />
|life =
|preceded =
|followed =  
|heritage =
|collapsed =
|closed =
|toll =  
|map_image =
|map_alt =
|map_width =
|coordinates = {{coord|33|9|3|N|74|52|59|E|}}
|coordinates = {{coord|33|9|3|N|74|52|59|E|}}
|extra =  
|extra =
}} {{Jammu-Baramulla line}}
|mapframe-zoom = 7}}
The '''Chenab Rail Bridge''' is an [[Indian railways|Indian railway]] steel and concrete [[arch bridge]] between Bakkal and Kauri in the [[Reasi district]] of [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]], [[India]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/chenab-arch-bridge-kashmir-7264526/|title=Quixplained: Chenab arch bridge which will connect Kashmir to Kanyakumari|date=7 April 2021|website=Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2 August 2020 |others=PTI |title=Chenab rail bridge to be ready by next year |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/chenab-rail-bridge-to-be-ready-by-next-year/articleshow/77314251.cms |access-date=2022-02-27 |website=The Times of India}}</ref> When completed, the bridge will span the [[Chenab River]] at a height of {{convert|359|m|ft|abbr=on}} above the river, making it the [[List of highest bridges in the world|world's highest rail bridge]].<ref name=":000">{{Cite web |last=Sagotra |first=Yogesh |date=7 November 2017 |title=World's tallest railway bridge on Chenab to complete by May 2019 |url=https://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/jammu/worlds-tallest-railway-bridge-on-chenab-to-complete-by-may-2019/ |website=Greater Kashmir}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=2013-02-17 |title=World's highest rail bridge to come up across Chenab river |publisher=Hindustan Times |agency=PTI |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/World-s-highest-rail-bridge-to-come-up-across-Chenab-river/Article1-1012851.aspx |url-status=dead |accessdate=2013-02-17 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130217170019/http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/World-s-highest-rail-bridge-to-come-up-across-Chenab-river/Article1-1012851.aspx |archivedate=2013-02-17}}</ref> In November 2017, the base supports were declared completed allowing for the start of the construction of the main arch.<ref>{{cite web |last=Jha |first=Srinand |date=6 November 2017 |title=Railways launches main arch of Chenab: World's highest rail bridge an impressive feat but are celebrations misplaced? |url=http://www.firstpost.com/india/railways-inaugurates-main-arch-of-chenab-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-an-impressive-feat-but-is-there-much-to-celebrate-4195915.html |website= |publisher=Firstpost}}</ref>
{{Jammu-Baramulla line}}
The '''Chenab Rail Bridge''' is a [[railway bridge]] over the [[Chenab River]] in [[Reasi district]] of the [[union territory]] of [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]] in India. It is a steel and concrete bridge spanning {{cvt|1315|m}} across the river [[gorge]]. The structure consists of an approach bridge which is {{cvt|530|m}} long and a {{cvt|785|m}}-long [[deck arch bridge]]. With a deck height of {{cvt|359|m}} from the river bed, the arch bridge is the [[List of highest bridges in the world|highest rail bridge]] in the world. It is located between Kauri and [[Bakkal railway station|Bakkal]] rail stations on the [[Jammu–Baramulla line]].


In April 2021, the Chenab Rail Bridge's arch was completed and it is expected to open to rail traffic in December 2022.<ref name=Marvel />
The Jammu–Baramulla railway project was initiated with the laying of its foundation stone in 1983, but construction commenced only in the mid-1990s after funds were allocated. The project progressed in phases: the [[Jammu Tawi railway station|Jammu]]&ndash;[[Udhampur railway station|Udhampur]] section opened in April 2005, and the Udhampur–[[Katra railway station|Katra]] section opened in July 2014, with the line set to extend beyond Srinagar to connect with the [[Baramulla railway station|Baramulla]]&ndash;[[Banihal railway station|Banihal]] section that was completed between 2008 and 2013.


Key technical data of the bridge include:<ref>{{cite journal |url=http://www.iitr.ac.in/departments/CE/abe/101-114.pdf |last=Narayan |first=Laxmi |date=March 2006 |title=TECHNICAL PAPER ON ANJI KHAD AND CHENAB BRIDGES |journal=Advances in Bridge Engineering |pages=101–114 |accessdate=2008-01-14}} {{Dead link|date=September 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
The bridge was constructed at a cost of {{INRconvert|14.86|b}}. The project was overseen by [[Konkan Railway Corporation]] of the [[Indian Railways]]. The construction work started in 2017, and the base supports were completed in November 2017 with the arch constructed by April 2021. The bridge was fully completed in August 2022, and the first trial runs were conducted in June 2024. The bridge was opened for rail traffic on 6 June 2025 by [[Prime Minister of India|prime minister]] [[Narendra Modi]].
* Deck height (height above river bed): {{convert|359|m|ft|abbr=on}}, (height above river surface): {{convert|322|m|ft|abbr=on}}
* Bridge length: {{convert|1315|m|ft|abbr=on}}, including the {{convert|650|m|ft|abbr=on}} long viaduct on the northern side
* Arch span: {{convert|467|m|ft|abbr=on}}<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.tekla.com/bim-awards/chenab-bridge| title= Chenab Bridge| date=25 June 2016 | work=Trimble Solutions Corporation}}</ref>
* Arch length: {{convert|480|m|ft|abbr=on}}<ref name="afcon1">{{cite web|url=http://www.projectsmonitor.com/detailnews.asp?newsid=8395|title=Indian Railways makes history;Awards largest bridge contract in J&K|work=Project Monitor|accessdate=2008-08-14|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080220020225/http://www.projectsmonitor.com/detailnews.asp?newsid=8395|archivedate=2008-02-20}}</ref>


This makes the Chenab Rail Bridge:  
== Background and planning ==
* The world's [[List of highest bridges in the world|highest railway bridge]]
In the late 1970s, the [[Government of India]] planned to establish a railway line to connect [[Jammu division|Jammu]] with the [[Kashmir Valley]]. The line would connect Kashmir with the rest of the [[Rail transport in India|Indian railway network]] and aid in the economic activity of the region.<ref name="RT">{{cite web|url=https://www.railway-technology.com/projects/chenab-bridge-jammu-kashmir/?cf-view|title=Chenab Bridge|work=Railway technology|access-date=1 June 2024}}</ref><ref name="Marvel">{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/good-news/2024/Jun/23/a-marvel-in-steel|title=A marvel in steel|date=23 June 2024|access-date=1 July 2024|work=[[The Indian Express]]}}</ref><ref name="DNA">{{cite news|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/viral/report-udhampur-srinagar-baramulla-rail-link-update-final-track-work-completed-vande-bharat-to-begin-in-3122482|title=Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail link update|date=15 December 2024|access-date=1 January 2025|newspaper=[[Daily News and Analysis]]}}</ref> It would also serve as a strategic link to the Kashmir region all round the year as the [[Jammu–Srinagar National Highway|road link]] between Jammu and Kashmir region is often cut off by [[snowfall]] during winters.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/jammusrinagar-national-highway-reopens-after-nearly-a-fortnight-101757531838202.html|title=Jammu-Srinagar national highway reopens after nearly a fortnight|date=9 September 2025|access-date=10 September 2025|newspaper=[[The Hindustan Times]]}}</ref><ref name="BBC">{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg3w71mkxwo|title=A new Kashmir rail bridge that could be a game-changer for India|date=15 August 2024|access-date=1 September 2024|work=[[BBC News]]|archive-date=25 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240825170637/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg3w71mkxwo|url-status=live}}</ref> Though the foundation stone for the [[Jammu-Baramulla line|Jammu-Baramulla railway]] project was laid in 1983, constructed started only when the funds were allocated only in the mid 1990s.<ref name="HT">{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/tracking-jammu-and-kashmir-s-rail-history/story-wDdzKH2WXmqf5uUSXDz9BL.html|title=Tracking Jammu and Kashmir rail history|date=28 October 2009|access-date=1 June 2024|work=[[The Hindustan Times]]}}</ref><ref name="DE">{{cite web|url=https://www.dailyexcelsior.com/history-of-railways-in-jk/|title=History of Railways in J&K|work=Daily Excelsior|date=6 October 2019|access-date=1 June 2024}}</ref><ref name="ET">{{cite web|url=https://www.earlytimes.in/newsdet.aspx?q=166884|title=History of Railways in Jammu & Kashmir|date=1 January 2016|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Early Times}}</ref>
* The bridge with the longest span in the {{Track gauge|5ft6in|lk=on}} [[broad gauge]] railway network


==Introduction and topography==
A survey was conducted in 1997 a feasibility study was conducted for connecting [[Udhampur]] in the Jammu region to [[Srinagar]] in the valley.<ref name="DE"/><ref name="ET"/> The line would have to pass through the [[Pir Panjal range]] of the [[Himalayas]],<ref name="HT"/> which necessitated multiple tunnels and bridges.<ref name="RT"/><ref name="DNA"/><ref name="IT"/> The line between Katra and Srinagar necessitated a crossing of a deep [[gorge]] formed by the [[Chenab River]].<ref name="RT"/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2008/01/17/stories/2008011757570500.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080120120958/http://www.hindu.com/2008/01/17/stories/2008011757570500.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=20 January 2008|title=Chenab Rail bridge will be highest in the world|access-date=14 August 2008|newspaper=[[The Hindu]]|date=17 January 2008}}</ref><ref name="CD">{{cite journal|title=Conceptual design of the Chenab Bridge in India|url=https://pdf.sciencedirectassets.com/278653/1-s2.0-S1877705812X00201/1-s2.0-S1877705812024642/main.pdf|author1=P. Pulkkinen|author2=S. Hopf b|author3=A. Jutila|journal=Procedia Engineering|volume=40|year=2012|pages=189–194| doi=10.1016/j.proeng.2012.07.078 }}</ref> A high-altitude rail bridge was approved to cross the river between Kauri and [[Bakkal railway station|Bakkal]], about {{cvt|23|km}} north of Katra, in [[Reasi district]].<ref name="RT"/><ref name="IE">{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/chenab-arch-bridge-kashmir-7264526/|title=Quixplained: Chenab arch bridge which will connect Kashmir to Kanyakumari|date=7 April 2021|newspaper=[[The Indian Express]]|access-date=9 April 2021|archive-date=9 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210409053017/https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/chenab-arch-bridge-kashmir-7264526/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="FE">{{cite news|last=Nag|first=Devanjana|date=16 January 2020|title=Chenab bridge: World's highest rail bridge taller than Eiffel Tower, can withstand blasts!|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/infrastructure/railways/chenab-bridge-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-taller-than-eiffel-tower-can-withstand-blasts-10-stunning-facts/1824028/|access-date=12 October 2021|newspaper=[[The Financial Express (India)|The Financial Express]]|archive-date=6 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200206233300/https://www.financialexpress.com/infrastructure/railways/chenab-bridge-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-taller-than-eiffel-tower-can-withstand-blasts-10-stunning-facts/1824028/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="SF">{{cite web|url=http://www.konkanrailway.com/website/tender/annexure1.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031208010318/http://www.konkanrailway.com/website/tender/annexure1.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 December 2003|work=[[Konkan Railway Corporation]]|title=Salient Features of the Chenab and Anji Khad Bridges|access-date=14 August 2008}}</ref> The planned construction area was located in a major [[seismic zone]] ([[Earthquake zones of India|zone V]]&ndash;highest risk<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/earthquake-risk-india-which-parts-in-top-seismic-zone-2331553-2023-02-07|title=Earthquake risk: Check which parts of India are in top seismic zone|work=[[India Today]]|access-date=1 June 2025}}</ref>) with a [[Fracture (geology)|fractured]] geology,<ref name="SF"/> and in a [[Kashmir conflict|conflict]] prone zone.<ref name="BBC"/>
[[Northern Railway Zone (India)|Northern Railway]] has undertaken the megaproject of constructing a [[Jammu–Baramulla line|new railway line]] across the [[India]]n union territory of [[Jammu and Kashmir (union territory)|Jammu and Kashmir]] between the towns of [[Udhampur]] near [[Jammu]] and [[Baramulla]] on the northwestern edge of the [[Kashmir Valley]]. This project was declared a national project in 2002.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nr.indianrail.gov.in/scripts/static/jammuandkashmir.aspx|work=Northern Railway Website: Official Page on the Kashmir Railway Project|title=J&K Rail Link Project|accessdate=2008-05-08| archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20080506085448/http://www.nr.indianrail.gov.in/scripts/static/jammuandkashmir.aspx| archivedate = 6 May 2008}}</ref> It is directed by the Northern Railway.


The extraordinary challenge lies in a large number of tunnels (totaling 63&nbsp;km in length<ref>{{cite journal |last=Singh |first=Mahendra Kumar |date=30 May 2011 |title=At 359 metres, rail bridge over Chenab will be world's highest |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-05-30/india/29599906_1_chenab-bridge-rail-bridge-highest-railway-bridge |url-status=dead |journal=[[The Times of India]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105204349/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-05-30/india/29599906_1_chenab-bridge-rail-bridge-highest-railway-bridge |archive-date=2012-11-05 |accessdate=2011-05-31}}</ref>) and bridges (7.5&nbsp;km) to be implemented in highly rugged and mountainous terrain, with the difficult [[Himalayas|Himalayan]] geology. The most difficult part is believed to be the crossing of the deep gorge of the Chenab River, near Salal Hydro Power Dam,<ref name="location">{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2008/01/17/stories/2008011757570500.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080120120958/http://www.hindu.com/2008/01/17/stories/2008011757570500.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=2008-01-20|title=Chenab Rail bridge will be highest in the world|accessdate=2008-08-14|location=Chennai, India|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=2008-01-17}}</ref> by the Chenab Bridge.
The [[Jammu Tawi railway station|Jammu]]&ndash;[[Udhampur railway station|Udhampur]] section of the planned Jammu&ndash;Baramulla line was opened in April 2005.<ref name="RT"/><ref name="DE"/> Subsequently, the section between [[Banihal railway station|Banihal]] and [[Baramulla railway station|Baramulla]] via [[Srinagar railway station|Srinagar]], was opened in phases from 2008 to 2013.<ref name="HT"/><ref name="IT">{{cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/north/story/baramulla-jammu-chenab-river-rail-bridge-to-cut-travel-time-india-today-154110-2013-02-15|title=India joins the superlative club, we now have the world's highest rail bridge|date=15 February 2013|access-date=17 September 2022|archive-date=20 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220920172000/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/north/story/baramulla-jammu-chenab-river-rail-bridge-to-cut-travel-time-india-today-154110-2013-02-15|url-status=live}}</ref> The section between Udhampur and [[Katra railway station|Katra]] was opened for traffic in July 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/modi-flags-off-inaugural-train-from-katra/article6176580.ece|title=Modi flags off inaugural train from Katra|newspaper=[[The Hindu]]|date=4 July 2014|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=12 September 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240912055841/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/modi-flags-off-inaugural-train-from-katra/article6176580.ece|url-status=live}}</ref>


Another, smaller, arch bridge proposed on the new railway line was the {{convert|657|m|ft|abbr=on}} long, {{convert|189|m|ft|abbr=on}} high [[Anji Khad Bridge]] between [[Katra, Jammu and Kashmir|Katra]] and [[Reasi]] over the [[Chenab River|Chenab river tributary]] river. This proposal was abandoned by the railway due to the specific geology of the location and a cable-stayed bridge is proposed which will be Indian Railways first cable stayed bridge.
== Design ==
The [[Indian Railways]] assigned the supervision of the bridge construction project to [[Konkan Railway Corporation]] on behalf of [[Northern Railway zone|Northern Railways]].<ref name="RT"/><ref name="PIB">{{cite press release|url=https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1709652|title=Railways complete the Arch closure of the iconic Chenab Bridge, World's highest Railway Bridge|work=[[Ministry of Railways (India)|Ministry of Railways]]|date=5 April 2021|access-date=1 June 2024}}</ref> The bridge was declared a national project due to its national importance in connecting Kashmir to the existing lines of Indian Railways.<ref name="IE"/><ref name="FE"/> Konkan railway invited tenders for the project in November 2003.<ref name="SF"/> [[WSP Global|WSP Finland]] served as the main designer of the bridge, with [[:de:Leonhardt, Andrä und Partner|Leonhardt, Andrä und Partner]] designing the bridge [[arches]], and Vienna Consulting Engineers aiding in the design of the [[Tower#Transportation_support|pylons]].<ref name="RT"/><ref name="Marvel"/><ref name="PIB"/> The [[Defence Research & Development Organization]] aided in developing the blast proofing of the bridge,<ref name="Marvel"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/chenab-railway-bridge-all-you-need-to-know-10051700/|title=All you need to know about world’s highest Chenab railway bridge inaugurated today|work=[[The Indian Express]]|date=6 June 2025|access-date=1 August 2025}}</ref> and the [[Indian Institute of Science]] helped with the study of the protection of the foundation of the bridge.<ref name="PIB"/>


==Design==
A {{cvt|1315|m}}-long bridge was planned at a cost of {{INRconvert|14.86|b}}.<ref name="IT"/><ref name="IE"/><ref name="PIB"/> The main deck of the bridge was planned at a height of {{cvt|359|m}} above the river bed, making it the [[List of highest bridges in the world|highest rail bridge]] in the world.<ref name="IT"/><ref name="IE"/><ref name="PIB"/><ref>{{cite news|date=17 February 2013|title=World's highest rail bridge to come up across Chenab river|newspaper=[[The Hindustan Times]]|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/World-s-highest-rail-bridge-to-come-up-across-Chenab-river/Article1-1012851.aspx|url-status=dead|access-date=17 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130217170019/http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/World-s-highest-rail-bridge-to-come-up-across-Chenab-river/Article1-1012851.aspx|archive-date=17 February 2013}}</ref> The bridge consists of two parts&ndash; an approach bridge which is {{cvt|530|m}} long and the {{cvt|785|m}}-long [[deck arch bridge]].<ref name="CD"/> The arch bridge consists of a two-ribbed arch design and prefabricated steel boxes filled with concrete used in chords of the [[trusses]].<ref name="RT"/><ref name="CD"/> The bridge consists of 17 [[Span (engineering)|spans]], with the main span measuring {{cvt|467|m}} in length.<ref name="RT"/><ref name="PIB"/> The spans are supported by steel piers, the highest of which measures {{cvt|133.7|m}}.<ref name="IT"/> The super structure consists of 161 [[girder]] plates each of {{cvt|8|m}} length and {{cvt|8|mm}} thickness.<ref name="IT"/><ref name="CD"/><ref name="FE"/> The bridge is about {{cvt|13.5|m}} wide,<ref name="CD"/> and can accommodate two railway tracks with a separation of {{cvt|1.2|m}}.<ref name="RT"/><ref name="IE"/> The main bridge arch structure weighs 10,619 tonnes and is supported by two cable-attached pylons measuring {{cvt|130|m}} and {{cvt|100|m}}, respectively.<ref name="RT"/><ref name="PIB"/>
After many deliberations, taking into account aesthetics, economy, and availability of local expertise and construction materials, the Chenab Rail Bridge was designed as a large span single arch steel bridge with approach viaducts on either side. The arch is two-ribbed, fabricated from large steel trusses. The chords of the trusses are sealed steel boxes, internally stiffened and filled with concrete to assist in controlling wind-induced forces on the bridge. Another advantage of concrete filling is that internal painting will not be required.


The number of bearings has been minimized, particularly on the approach viaduct, through the use of continuous construction. This is advantageous, as it reduces the maintenance and inspection efforts, and improves the riding quality. The viaduct piers are of concrete, while the piers near the arch are
The design and construction is compliant with various national and global standards and codes, including Indian Standards, Indian Railway Standards, Indian Road Congress, [[British Standards]], and [[International Union of Railways]].<ref name="RT"/><ref name="CD"/><ref name="SF"/> The bridge is designed to have a life of 120 years and is designated to handle rail speeds of up to {{cvt|100|kph}}.<ref name="RT"/><ref name="Marvel"/><ref name="PIB"/> The bridge was designed to withstand earthquakes up to a magnitude of eight on the [[Richter scale]], high-intensity blasts equivalent to about 40 tonnes of [[TNT]], temperatures up to {{cvt|-20|C}} and wind speeds of up to {{cvt|266|kph}}.<ref name="IE"/><ref name="FE"/><ref name="PIB"/><ref>{{cite news|date=7 April 2024|title=The Kashmir valley is not far|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/jammu-and-kashmir/in-frames-kashmir-valley-is-not-far-udhampur-srinagar-baramulla-rail-link/article68038963.ece|access-date=11 April 2024|newspaper=[[The Hindu]]|archive-date=9 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409141818/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/jammu-and-kashmir/in-frames-kashmir-valley-is-not-far-udhampur-srinagar-baramulla-rail-link/article68038963.ece|url-status=live}}</ref>
Indian construction standards such as the Indian Railway Standards (IRS), the Indian Road Congress (IRC) and the Indian Standards (IS) were found inadequate for the large spans of the Chenab Bridge. For example, the Indian Railway Standards (IRS) is primarily intended for simply supported bridges with spans up to 100m (although these have been successfully used for higher spans up to 154m). The spans for the Chenab Rail Bridge greatly exceed this limit, and are continuous. Therefore, to assure a safe design, Indian national standards have been supplemented with International standards such as British Standards (BS), [[International Union of Railways]] (UIC) and Euro. Also, many global experts with versatile and relevant experience, have been involved in order to facilitate making the project a success.


Following are some of the design considerations taken into account:
== Construction and opening ==
* Limit state philosophy of design has been decided to be followed as per BS codes
[[File:View of Kauri side, Chenab Bridge in 2013 - 7770b (9288239078).jpg|thumb|upright=0.65|Piers of the approach bridge in 2013]]
* Computation of wind load effects as per wind tunnel tests
* Site specific seismic spectra developed by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee
* Provision of Euro code 8 for ductility detailing of very tall and hollow rectangular RCC piers
* Provision of long welded rail (LWR) over the bridges and resulting force calculation as per UIC – 774-3R guidelines
* Blast resistant design used
* Design checking for fatigue as per BS codes
* Deformation limits as per comfort criteria of UIC – 776-2R and UIC 776 -3R guidelines
* Redundancy provided in the structures, for lower level of operation during mishaps and against collapse in extreme cases of one pier failure


The quality aspect has been emphasised, as the quantum of fabrication and welding is colossal. Mostly indigenous material compliant to IS codes has been planned to be used, whereas for the design, international codes have been referred, which means the Quality Control work is still difficult.
The construction contract was awarded to Chenab Bridge Project Undertaking, a joint venture between Indian companies [[Afcons Infrastructure]] and [[VSL International|VSL India]], and South Korean company Ultra Construction.<ref name="PIB" /><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.railway-technology.com/projects/chenab-bridge-jammu-kashmir/|title=Chenab Rail Bridge, Jammu and Kashmir, India|work=Railway Technology|access-date=4 July 2013|archive-date=15 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210415170401/https://www.railway-technology.com/projects/chenab-bridge-jammu-kashmir/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.projectsmonitor.com/detailnews.asp?newsid=8395|title=Indian Railways makes history;Awards largest bridge contract in J&K|work=Project Monitor|access-date=1 September 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080220020225/http://www.projectsmonitor.com/detailnews.asp?newsid=8395|archive-date=20 February 2008}}</ref> As the construction site was located amidst the Himalayas, the construction involved several logistical challenges.<ref name="BBC" /><ref name="CD" /> Due to limited connectivity, workshops were set up at select locations on either side of the river valley.<ref name="CD" /> The electricity used was generated locally, and the water was transported using pipes from the river.<ref name="CD" /> Proofing of the foundation, and viaduct and arch was done by the companies [[URS Corporation]] and [[COWI A/S|COWI]] respectively.<ref name="PIB" /> Stability analysis was done ITASCA Consulting Group along with [[Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi|IIT Delhi]], and [[Seismology|seismic analysis]] was done by IIT Delhi and [[IIT Roorkee]].<ref name="PIB"/>


==Construction==
The viaduct piers are made of self-compacting concrete filled into steel boxes.<ref name="FE"/> The construction used about 28,660 tonnes of steel, 66,000 m<sup>3</sup> of concrete and {{cvt|84|km}} of bolts and cables.<ref name="Marvel"/><ref name="IE"/><ref name="PIB"/> The steel was supplied by the [[Steel Authority of India]].<ref name="IT"/><ref name="FE"/> Cabling for the pylon was installed by Jochum Andreas Seiltransporte.<ref name="RT"/> After the steel columns were built, a [[derrick crane]] was used to install the arch sections and deck spans in place, with temporary cables holding them in place.<ref name="CD"/> Specially designed high-strength friction-grip bolts were used for joining the two ends of the bridge arches.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/chenab-railway-bridge-in-jk-nears-completion-with-golden-joint-8072722/|title=Chenab Railway Bridge in J&K nears completion with golden joint|work=[[The Indian Express]]|date=5 August 2022|access-date=1 June 2024}}</ref> Due to the extreme location of the bridge, a new [[corrosion]] resistant painting scheme was developed, having a longer life time of about 15 years, compared to five to seven years in most other Indian railway bridges.<ref name="FE"/><ref>{{cite news|date=3 May 2017|title=J&K The railway bridge being built on the Chenab river will be 35 meters higher than the Eiffel Tower.|url=https://www.bhaskar.com/news/NAT-NAN-a-rail-bridge-taller-than-the-eiffel-tower-over-the-chenab-5589266-PHO.html|access-date=12 October 2021|archive-date=28 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028165940/https://www.bhaskar.com/news/NAT-NAN-a-rail-bridge-taller-than-the-eiffel-tower-over-the-chenab-5589266-PHO.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The painting contract was awarded to [[AkzoNobel]].<ref name="RT"/>
The Chenab Rail Bridge was originally intended to be completed in December 2009.<ref>{{cite news |date=2007-11-05 |title=J&K to have world's tallest bridge |work=[[The Times of India]] |agency=PTI |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-11-05/india/27960621_1_chenab-bridge-tallest-bridge-reasi |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018211747/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-11-05/india/27960621_1_chenab-bridge-tallest-bridge-reasi |archive-date=2012-10-18 |accessdate=2008-01-14}}</ref> However, in September 2008, the project was halted due to fears over the bridge's stability and safety.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Chenab-bridge-plan-back-on-track-despite-safety-worries/articleshow/4690088.cms|title=Chenab bridge plan back on track despite safety worries &#124; India News - Times of India|website=The Times of India}}</ref> Work on the bridge restarted in 2010,<ref>{{cite web |date=10 June 2010 |title=Work Resumes on Tallest Rail Bridge in India |url=http://www.railway-technology.com/news/news87583.html |website=Railway Technology |publisher=}}</ref> with the plan to complete it in 2015.<ref>{{cite news |last=Singh |first=Mahendra Kumar |date=18 June 2012 |title=Highest railway bridge in J&K to be ready by 2015 |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-06-18/india/32298584_1_chenab-bridge-katra-dharam-topography-and-fragile-geology |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130511224400/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-06-18/india/32298584_1_chenab-bridge-katra-dharam-topography-and-fragile-geology |archive-date=11 May 2013}}</ref>


The design and construction was awarded to [[Afcons Infrastructure]],<ref name="afcons">{{cite web|url=https://www.railway-technology.com/projects/chenab-bridge-jammu-kashmir/|title=Chenab Rail Bridge, Jammu and Kashmir, India|work=Railway Technology|accessdate=2013-07-04}}</ref> a part of the [[Shapoorji Pallonji Group]], the third-largest construction group in India, with the help of [[IISC Bangalore|IISc Bangalore]]. Major construction decisions were taken by [[Konkan Railway Corporation]]. The [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO) helped in the design of the bridge, making it blast-proof using special steel.<ref name="DRDO">{{cite web|url=https://eurasiantimes.com/kashmir-to-get-blast-proof-worlds-highest-railway-bridge-over-river-chenab/|title=Kashmir To Get "Blast-Proof" World's Highest Railway Bridge Over River Chenab|work=The Eurasian Times|date=28 December 2018|accessdate=2018-12-28}}</ref>
[[File:Aerial view at construction site at Chenab Bridge.jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.8|Aerial view of Chenab Bridge during construction of the arch]]


The erection scheme for the bridge is a project in itself. Two pylons (about 130 m and 100 m high) were erected on either side of the river, and two auxiliary self-propelled cable cranes (capacity of 20 tonnes each) were used to tow temporary auxiliary ropes across these pylons. The ropes were used to support the partly finished arch parts. After arch completion, the trusses will be added, finally the girder will be constructed as a horizontal sliding type platform.
The project was initially slated for completion by 2009.<ref name="CD"/> However, construction was halted in late 2008 due to concerns about the safety and stability of the bridge.<ref name="RT"/><ref name="IT"/><ref name="FE"/> Construction work resumed in 2010 after modifications were made to the main span design.<ref name="CD"/><ref>{{cite news|date=10 June 2010|title=Work Resumes on Tallest Rail Bridge in India|url=http://www.railway-technology.com/news/news87583.html|work=Railway Technology|access-date=1 November 2012|archive-date=2 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121002045251/http://www.railway-technology.com/news/news87583.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The base supports of the bridge were completed in November 2017.<ref>{{cite news|last=Jha|first=Srinand|date=6 November 2017|title=Railways launches main arch of Chenab: World's highest rail bridge an impressive feat but are celebrations misplaced?|url=http://www.firstpost.com/india/railways-inaugurates-main-arch-of-chenab-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-an-impressive-feat-but-is-there-much-to-celebrate-4195915.html|work=[[Firstpost]]|access-date=20 February 2018|archive-date=20 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220212206/http://www.firstpost.com/india/railways-inaugurates-main-arch-of-chenab-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-an-impressive-feat-but-is-there-much-to-celebrate-4195915.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Construction progressed actively in 2018, with initial plans to complete the bridge by May 2019.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://zeenews.india.com/india/worlds-highest-railway-bridge-taller-than-eiffel-tower-nearing-completion-in-jk-2155242.html|title=World's highest railway bridge, taller than Eiffel Tower, nearing completion in J&K|date=13 November 2018|work=[[Zee News]]|access-date=8 October 2019|archive-date=8 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191008090351/https://zeenews.india.com/india/worlds-highest-railway-bridge-taller-than-eiffel-tower-nearing-completion-in-jk-2155242.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Sagotra|first=Yogesh|date=7 November 2017|title=World's tallest railway bridge on Chenab to complete by May 2019|url=https://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/jammu/worlds-tallest-railway-bridge-on-chenab-to-complete-by-may-2019/|work=Greater Kashmir|access-date=8 October 2019|archive-date=8 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190608195553/https://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/jammu/worlds-tallest-railway-bridge-on-chenab-to-complete-by-may-2019/|url-status=live}}</ref> However, progress was slower than expected, and several deadlines were missed.<ref>{{cite news|date=1 December 2018|title=Kashmir rail link to see further delay after work stops yet again|url=https://thekashmirwalla.com/kashmir-rail-link-to-see-further-delay-after-work-stops-yet-again/|access-date=12 October 2021|work=The Kashmir Walla|archive-date=27 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027205042/https://thekashmirwalla.com/kashmir-rail-link-to-see-further-delay-after-work-stops-yet-again/|url-status=usurped}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://thepolicytimes.com/chenab-rail-bridge-to-miss-2020-deadline/|title=Chenab rail bridge to miss 2020 deadline|work=Policy Times|date=3 December 2018|access-date=13 December 2018|archive-date=6 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506220839/https://thepolicytimes.com/chenab-rail-bridge-to-miss-2020-deadline/|url-status=live}}</ref> By January 2020, only about 83% of the construction had been completed, with a subsequent planned opening in 2021.<ref name="FE"/><ref>{{cite news|last=Jacob|first=Shine|date=19 August 2019|title=Railway project to link Kashmir with rest of India put on fast track|newspaper=[[Business Standard]]|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/railway-project-to-link-kashmir-with-rest-of-india-put-on-fast-track-119081901302_1.html|access-date=6 September 2019|archive-date=6 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190906040526/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/railway-project-to-link-kashmir-with-rest-of-india-put-on-fast-track-119081901302_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The arches were completed by April 2021, with a new deadline set for 2022.<ref>{{cite news|title=Indian Railways completes close to 90 percent work on world's highest Chenab rail bridge|url=https://zeenews.india.com/railways/indian-railways-completes-close-to-90-percent-work-on-worlds-highest-chenab-rail-bridge-2477499.html/amp|work=[[Zee News]]|date=24 June 2022|access-date=17 July 2022|archive-date=17 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717121349/https://zeenews.india.com/railways/indian-railways-completes-close-to-90-percent-work-on-worlds-highest-chenab-rail-bridge-2477499.html/amp|url-status=live}}</ref> The bridge was fully completed and inaugurated on 13 August 2022.<ref>{{cite news|title=Chenab Bridge: Before 'Golden' Launch Today, Cross Journey Behind Making J&K's Marvel|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/chenab-bridge-before-the-golden-launch-today-cross-journey-behind-making-jks-marvel-with-news18-5742139.html|access-date=13 August 2022|work=[[News18]]|date=13 August 2022|archive-date=13 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220813164832/https://www.news18.com/news/india/chenab-bridge-before-the-golden-launch-today-cross-journey-behind-making-jks-marvel-with-news18-5742139.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|date=13 August 2022|title=Chenab Bridge, World's Highest Rail Bridge Taller Than Eiffel Tower, Inaugurated Today|url=https://www.india.com/news/india/chenab-bridge-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-taller-than-eiffel-tower-inaugurated-today-all-you-need-to-know-5570123/|access-date=13 August 2022|work=India.com|archive-date=13 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220813164853/https://www.india.com/news/india/chenab-bridge-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-taller-than-eiffel-tower-inaugurated-today-all-you-need-to-know-5570123/|url-status=live}}</ref>


==Project status==
[[File:Prime Minister of Bharat, Shri Narendra Damodardas Modi visits Chenab Bridge.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|Inauguration of the bridge]]


* '''Jul 2017:''' Construction work resumed on the bridge.
In February 2023, the laying of [[railway track]]s on the bridge commenced,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.greaterkashmir.com/story/todays-paper/front-page/track-laying-work-on-worlds-highest-railway-bridge-starts|title=Track-laying work on world's highest railway bridge starts|date=21 February 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Greater Kashmir|archive-date=21 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230221203334/https://www.greaterkashmir.com/story/todays-paper/front-page/track-laying-work-on-worlds-highest-railway-bridge-starts|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/tracklaying-work-begins-on-world-s-highest-rail-bridge-in-j-k-s-reasi-101677001469979-amp.html|title=Track-laying work begins on world's highest rail bridge in J&K's Reasi|newspaper=[[Hindustan Times]]|date=21 February 2023|access-date=21 February 2023|archive-date=21 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230221203336/https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/chandigarh-news/tracklaying-work-begins-on-world-s-highest-rail-bridge-in-j-k-s-reasi-101677001469979-amp.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/infrastructure/railways/udhampur-srinagar-baramulla-rail-link-project-on-chenab-bridge-track-laying-work-begins-on-worlds-highest-railway-bridge/2987999/lite/|title=Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project on Chenab Bridge: Track laying work begins on world's highest Railway bridge|newspaper=[[The Financial Express (India)|The Financial Express]]|date=23 February 2023|access-date=21 February 2023|archive-date=21 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230221204014/https://www.financialexpress.com/infrastructure/railways/udhampur-srinagar-baramulla-rail-link-project-on-chenab-bridge-track-laying-work-begins-on-worlds-highest-railway-bridge/2987999/lite/|url-status=live}}</ref> and consisted of a single railway track.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://wobo-un.org/the-chenab-rail-bridge-india/#:~:text=The%20Chenab%20Rail%20Bridge%20is%20a%20steel%20and,the%20Jammu%20Division%20of%20Jammu%20and%20Kashmir%2C%20India|title=The Chenab Rail Bridge – India|work=Wobo|date=15 April 2024|access-date=10 June 2025|archive-date=2 August 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250802232205/https://wobo-un.org/the-chenab-rail-bridge-india/#:~:text=The%20Chenab%20Rail%20Bridge%20is%20a%20steel%20and,the%20Jammu%20Division%20of%20Jammu%20and%20Kashmir%2C%20India|url-status=live}}</ref> While the initial target for commencing rail traffic was January 2024,<ref>{{cite news|title=Railway to Connect Kashmir with Rest of India by Start of 2024, Ladakh to Get 500 Towers: Ashwini Vaishnaw|url=https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/newsindia/railway-to-connect-kashmir-with-rest-of-india-by-start-of-2024-ladakh-to-get-500-towers-ashwini-vaishnaw/ar-AA193Dxo?PC=EMMX01|work=[[News18]]|date=25 March 2023|access-date=25 March 2023|archive-date=28 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230328110252/https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/newsindia/railway-to-connect-kashmir-with-rest-of-india-by-start-of-2024-ladakh-to-get-500-towers-ashwini-vaishnaw/ar-AA193Dxo?PC=EMMX01|url-status=live}}</ref> the expected opening date was pushed to late 2024.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/plans-to-connect-kashmir-with-rest-of-india-through-rail-pushed-to-july/article67867799.ece|title=Plans to connect Kashmir with rest of India through rail pushed to July|newspaper=[[The Hindu]]|date=21 February 2024|last1=Porecha|first1=Maitri|archive-date=4 March 2024|access-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240304191107/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/plans-to-connect-kashmir-with-rest-of-india-through-rail-pushed-to-july/article67867799.ece|url-status=live}}</ref> Trial runs on various sections of the Katra&ndash;Banihal sector commenced in December 2023, with full-scale trial runs across the entire sector including the bridge in June 2024.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.greaterkashmir.com/chenab-valley/usbrl-project-first-electric-engine-train-trial-run-conducted-at-sumbal-sangal-rly-stations/|title=First electric engine train trial run conducted at Sumbal, Sangal Rly stations|work=Greater Kashmir|date=11 February 2024|access-date=1 June 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://zeenews.india.com/photos/india/in-pics-railways-successful-trial-run-on-worlds-highest-chenab-bridge-in-kashmir-2759529|title=Railways Successful Trial Run on Worlds Highest Chenab Bridge in Kashmir|work=[[Zee News]]|date=22 June 2024|access-date=22 June 2024|archive-date=22 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240622153518/https://zeenews.india.com/photos/india/in-pics-railways-successful-trial-run-on-worlds-highest-chenab-bridge-in-kashmir-2759529|url-status=live}}</ref> The bridge was planned to open for regular railway traffic in April 2025, which was later postponed due to adverse weather.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/katrasrinagar-vande-bharat-launch-hits-weather-hurdle-pm-modis-jammu-visit-on-april-19-postponed-new-dates-soon-11744767800525.html|title=Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat launch hits weather hurdle; PM Modi's Jammu visit on April 19 postponed, new dates soon|work=[[Live Mint]]|date=16 April 2025|access-date=19 April 2025|archive-date=17 April 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250417043545/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/katrasrinagar-vande-bharat-launch-hits-weather-hurdle-pm-modis-jammu-visit-on-april-19-postponed-new-dates-soon-11744767800525.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The bridge was opened for regular rail traffic by [[Prime Minister of India|Indian prime minister]] [[Narendra Modi]] on 6 June 2025, with the launch of train services connecting Katra in the Jammu region and Srinagar in the Kashmir valley.<ref>{{cite news|title=Chenab Rail Bridge to bring Delhi and Kashmir closer {{!}} Why is it important|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/chenab-rail-bridge-to-bring-delhi-and-kashmir-closer-why-is-it-important-101748953882537.html|access-date=4 June 2025|date=4 June 2025|newspaper=[[The Hindustan Times]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/pm-inaugurates-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-over-river-chenab-that-will-link-kashmir-valley-to-rest-of-countr-2736622-2025-06-06|title=PM opens landmark Chenab Bridge, flags off Vande Bharat in massive Kashmir push|date=6 June 2025|access-date=1 July 2025|work=[[India Today]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/pm-modi-inaugurates-world-s-highest-railway-bridge-over-chenab-river-in-jk-101749189555007.html|title=PM Modi inaugurates world's highest railway bridge over Chenab river|access-date=6 June 2025|date=6 June 2025|newspaper=[[The Hindustan Times]]}}</ref>
* '''Nov 2017:''' The work bridge's arch is was expected to be completed By May 2019.<ref name=":0" />
* '''Nov 2018:''' The bridge is now under active construction.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://zeenews.india.com/india/worlds-highest-railway-bridge-taller-than-eiffel-tower-nearing-completion-in-jk-2155242.html|title=World's highest railway bridge, taller than Eiffel Tower, nearing completion in J&K|date=13 November 2018|website=Zee News}}</ref>
* '''Dec 2018:''' The project was expected to be completed by the end of 2019, but at this time, it seems unlikely.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-12-01 |title=Kashmir rail link to see further delay after work stops yet again |url=https://thekashmirwalla.com/kashmir-rail-link-to-see-further-delay-after-work-stops-yet-again/ |access-date=2021-10-12 |website=The Kashmir Walla}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thepolicytimes.com/chenab-rail-bridge-to-miss-2020-deadline/|title=Chenab rail bridge to miss 2020 deadline|first=T. P. T.|last=Bureau|date=3 December 2018}}</ref>
* '''Aug 2019:''' 80% of construction work has been completed on the bridge, and is expected to be opened in mid-2020.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Jacob |first=Shine |date=19 August 2019 |title=Railway project to link Kashmir with rest of India put on fast track |newspaper=Business Standard India |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/railway-project-to-link-kashmir-with-rest-of-india-put-on-fast-track-119081901302_1.html}}</ref>
* '''Nov 2019:''' 83% work has been completed on the bridge, and is now expected to be opened in March 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nag |first=Devanjana |date=25 December 2019 |title=Indian Railways Chenab bridge, world s highest railway bridge, to be ready by this date; project details |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/infrastructure/railways/indian-railways-chenab-bridge-worlds-highest-railway-bridge-to-be-ready-by-this-date-project-details/1758312/ |publisher=Financial Express}}</ref>
* '''Jan 2020:''' It is now expected to be opened in December 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nag |first=Devanjana |date=2020-01-16 |title=Chenab bridge: World's highest rail bridge taller than Eiffel Tower, can withstand blasts! 10 stunning facts |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/infrastructure/railways/chenab-bridge-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-taller-than-eiffel-tower-can-withstand-blasts-10-stunning-facts/1824028/ |access-date=2021-10-12 |website=The Financial Express}}</ref>
* '''April 2021:''' Work on both the ends of the bridge's arch is finally completed. It is now expected to be opened in 2022.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Arch Closure Ceremony of Chenab Bridge on USBRL Project , Northern Railway|work=USBRL|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdBXZe8Feio |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211212/pdBXZe8Feio| archive-date=2021-12-12 |url-status=live}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name="Marvel">{{Cite web |date=6 April 2021 |title=Railways completes world's highest rail bridge arch: Why Chenab bridge is called an 'engineering marvel' |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/railways-completes-worlds-highest-rail-bridge-arch-why-chenab-bridge-is-called-an-engineering-marvel/741721 |access-date=2021-04-15 |website=Times Now}}</ref>
* '''June 2022:''' About 90% of construction work has been completed, and is now confirmed to make the bridge operational by December 2022.<ref>{{cite news|title=Indian Railways completes close to 90 percent work on world`s highest Chenab rail bridge|url=https://zeenews.india.com/railways/indian-railways-completes-close-to-90-percent-work-on-worlds-highest-chenab-rail-bridge-2477499.html/amp|work= Zee News|date= 24 June 2022|access-date= 17 July 2022|language=en}}</ref>
* '''August 2022:''' About 98% of construction work has been completed.<ref>https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/jammu-and-kashmir-worlds-highest-chenab-bridge-to-be-launched-on-august-13</ref>
* '''August 2022:''' World's highest single-arch rail bridge over Chenab completed.
 
==Maintenance==
Regular painting of large bridges is an intimidating task; hence, a painting scheme was developed, having renewal of over 15 years, compared to approx. 5 to 7 years in most other Indian railway bridges.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tiwari |first=Neelam |date=2017-05-03 |title=J&K The railway bridge being built on the Chenab river will be 35 meters higher than the Eiffel Tower. |url=https://www.bhaskar.com/news/NAT-NAN-a-rail-bridge-taller-than-the-eiffel-tower-over-the-chenab-5589266-PHO.html |access-date=2021-10-12 |website=Dainik Bhaskar |language=hi}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
* {{Portal-inline|Transport}}
* {{Portal-inline|Engineering}}
* [[Anji Khad Bridge]]
* [[Anji Khad Bridge]]
* [[Future_of_rail_transport_in_India#Geo|Geostrategic rail lines in India]]
* [[Future of rail transport in India#Geo|Geostrategic rail lines in India]]
* [[India-China Border Roads]]
* [[India-China Border Roads]]
* [[List of bridges in India]]
* [[List of bridges in India]]
* [[Tourism in India]]


== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist|30em}}
{{reflist}}


== External links ==
== External links ==
*{{Structurae|id=20013811}}
{{Commons category}}
*[http://cadmec.com/video.html Video simulation of the construction process]
* {{Portal-inline|Transport}}
*[http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article3540272.ece Report on bridge's progress including photo, June 2012]
* {{Portal-inline|Engineering}}
* {{Structurae|id=20013811}}
 
{{Bridges in India}}
{{Authority control}}


[[Category:Proposed rail infrastructure in India]]
[[Category:2022 establishments in Jammu and Kashmir]]
[[Category:Bridges completed in 2022]]
[[Category:Bridges over the Chenab River]]
[[Category:Bridges in Jammu and Kashmir]]
[[Category:Bridges in Jammu and Kashmir]]
[[Category:Proposed bridges in India]]
[[Category:Railway bridges in India]]
[[Category:2022 in rail transport]]
[[Category:Bridges over the Chenab River]]
[[Category:Reasi district]]
[[Category:Reasi district]]
[[Category:Buildings and structures under construction in India]]
[[Category:Modi administration initiatives]]

Latest revision as of 02:33, 23 February 2026


Chenab Rail Bridge
Chenab Rail Bridge in 2023
Coordinates33°9′3″N 74°52′59″E / 33.15083°N 74.88306°E / 33.15083; 74.88306
OS grid referenceTemplate:Gbmappingsmall
CarriesTrains
CrossesChenab River
LocaleReasi district, Jammu and Kashmir
OwnerIndian Railways
Maintained byIndian Railways
Characteristics
DesignDeck arch bridge
MaterialSteel and concrete
Total length1,315 m (4,314 ft)
Width13.5 m (44 ft)
Height359 m (1,178 ft)
Longest span467 m (1,532 ft)
No. of spans17
History
Designer
Constructed by
Construction cost₹14.86 billion (US$210 million)
Opened6 June 2025; 13 months ago (2025-06-06)
Inaugurated13 August 2022; 3 years ago (2022-08-13)
Location
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Template:Jammu-Baramulla line The Chenab Rail Bridge is a railway bridge over the Chenab River in Reasi district of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is a steel and concrete bridge spanning 1,315 m (4,314 ft) across the river gorge. The structure consists of an approach bridge which is 530 m (1,740 ft) long and a 785 m (2,575 ft)-long deck arch bridge. With a deck height of 359 m (1,178 ft) from the river bed, the arch bridge is the highest rail bridge in the world. It is located between Kauri and Bakkal rail stations on the Jammu–Baramulla line.

The Jammu–Baramulla railway project was initiated with the laying of its foundation stone in 1983, but construction commenced only in the mid-1990s after funds were allocated. The project progressed in phases: the Jammu–Udhampur section opened in April 2005, and the Udhampur–Katra section opened in July 2014, with the line set to extend beyond Srinagar to connect with the Baramulla–Banihal section that was completed between 2008 and 2013.

The bridge was constructed at a cost of ₹14.86 billion (US$210 million). The project was overseen by Konkan Railway Corporation of the Indian Railways. The construction work started in 2017, and the base supports were completed in November 2017 with the arch constructed by April 2021. The bridge was fully completed in August 2022, and the first trial runs were conducted in June 2024. The bridge was opened for rail traffic on 6 June 2025 by prime minister Narendra Modi.

Background and planning[edit | edit source]

In the late 1970s, the Government of India planned to establish a railway line to connect Jammu with the Kashmir Valley. The line would connect Kashmir with the rest of the Indian railway network and aid in the economic activity of the region.[1][2][3] It would also serve as a strategic link to the Kashmir region all round the year as the road link between Jammu and Kashmir region is often cut off by snowfall during winters.[4][5] Though the foundation stone for the Jammu-Baramulla railway project was laid in 1983, constructed started only when the funds were allocated only in the mid 1990s.[6][7][8]

A survey was conducted in 1997 a feasibility study was conducted for connecting Udhampur in the Jammu region to Srinagar in the valley.[7][8] The line would have to pass through the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas,[6] which necessitated multiple tunnels and bridges.[1][3][9] The line between Katra and Srinagar necessitated a crossing of a deep gorge formed by the Chenab River.[1][10][11] A high-altitude rail bridge was approved to cross the river between Kauri and Bakkal, about 23 km (14 mi) north of Katra, in Reasi district.[1][12][13][14] The planned construction area was located in a major seismic zone (zone V–highest risk[15]) with a fractured geology,[14] and in a conflict prone zone.[5]

The Jammu–Udhampur section of the planned Jammu–Baramulla line was opened in April 2005.[1][7] Subsequently, the section between Banihal and Baramulla via Srinagar, was opened in phases from 2008 to 2013.[6][9] The section between Udhampur and Katra was opened for traffic in July 2014.[16]

Design[edit | edit source]

The Indian Railways assigned the supervision of the bridge construction project to Konkan Railway Corporation on behalf of Northern Railways.[1][17] The bridge was declared a national project due to its national importance in connecting Kashmir to the existing lines of Indian Railways.[12][13] Konkan railway invited tenders for the project in November 2003.[14] WSP Finland served as the main designer of the bridge, with Leonhardt, Andrä und Partner designing the bridge arches, and Vienna Consulting Engineers aiding in the design of the pylons.[1][2][17] The Defence Research & Development Organization aided in developing the blast proofing of the bridge,[2][18] and the Indian Institute of Science helped with the study of the protection of the foundation of the bridge.[17]

A 1,315 m (4,314 ft)-long bridge was planned at a cost of ₹14.86 billion (US$210 million).[9][12][17] The main deck of the bridge was planned at a height of 359 m (1,178 ft) above the river bed, making it the highest rail bridge in the world.[9][12][17][19] The bridge consists of two parts– an approach bridge which is 530 m (1,740 ft) long and the 785 m (2,575 ft)-long deck arch bridge.[11] The arch bridge consists of a two-ribbed arch design and prefabricated steel boxes filled with concrete used in chords of the trusses.[1][11] The bridge consists of 17 spans, with the main span measuring 467 m (1,532 ft) in length.[1][17] The spans are supported by steel piers, the highest of which measures 133.7 m (439 ft).[9] The super structure consists of 161 girder plates each of 8 m (26 ft) length and 8 mm (0.31 in) thickness.[9][11][13] The bridge is about 13.5 m (44 ft) wide,[11] and can accommodate two railway tracks with a separation of 1.2 m (3 ft 11 in).[1][12] The main bridge arch structure weighs 10,619 tonnes and is supported by two cable-attached pylons measuring 130 m (430 ft) and 100 m (330 ft), respectively.[1][17]

The design and construction is compliant with various national and global standards and codes, including Indian Standards, Indian Railway Standards, Indian Road Congress, British Standards, and International Union of Railways.[1][11][14] The bridge is designed to have a life of 120 years and is designated to handle rail speeds of up to 100 km/h (62 mph).[1][2][17] The bridge was designed to withstand earthquakes up to a magnitude of eight on the Richter scale, high-intensity blasts equivalent to about 40 tonnes of TNT, temperatures up to −20 °C (−4 °F) and wind speeds of up to 266 km/h (165 mph).[12][13][17][20]

Construction and opening[edit | edit source]

Piers of the approach bridge in 2013

The construction contract was awarded to Chenab Bridge Project Undertaking, a joint venture between Indian companies Afcons Infrastructure and VSL India, and South Korean company Ultra Construction.[17][21][22] As the construction site was located amidst the Himalayas, the construction involved several logistical challenges.[5][11] Due to limited connectivity, workshops were set up at select locations on either side of the river valley.[11] The electricity used was generated locally, and the water was transported using pipes from the river.[11] Proofing of the foundation, and viaduct and arch was done by the companies URS Corporation and COWI respectively.[17] Stability analysis was done ITASCA Consulting Group along with IIT Delhi, and seismic analysis was done by IIT Delhi and IIT Roorkee.[17]

The viaduct piers are made of self-compacting concrete filled into steel boxes.[13] The construction used about 28,660 tonnes of steel, 66,000 m3 of concrete and 84 km (52 mi) of bolts and cables.[2][12][17] The steel was supplied by the Steel Authority of India.[9][13] Cabling for the pylon was installed by Jochum Andreas Seiltransporte.[1] After the steel columns were built, a derrick crane was used to install the arch sections and deck spans in place, with temporary cables holding them in place.[11] Specially designed high-strength friction-grip bolts were used for joining the two ends of the bridge arches.[23] Due to the extreme location of the bridge, a new corrosion resistant painting scheme was developed, having a longer life time of about 15 years, compared to five to seven years in most other Indian railway bridges.[13][24] The painting contract was awarded to AkzoNobel.[1]

Aerial view of Chenab Bridge during construction of the arch

The project was initially slated for completion by 2009.[11] However, construction was halted in late 2008 due to concerns about the safety and stability of the bridge.[1][9][13] Construction work resumed in 2010 after modifications were made to the main span design.[11][25] The base supports of the bridge were completed in November 2017.[26] Construction progressed actively in 2018, with initial plans to complete the bridge by May 2019.[27][28] However, progress was slower than expected, and several deadlines were missed.[29][30] By January 2020, only about 83% of the construction had been completed, with a subsequent planned opening in 2021.[13][31] The arches were completed by April 2021, with a new deadline set for 2022.[32] The bridge was fully completed and inaugurated on 13 August 2022.[33][34]

Inauguration of the bridge

In February 2023, the laying of railway tracks on the bridge commenced,[35][36][37] and consisted of a single railway track.[38] While the initial target for commencing rail traffic was January 2024,[39] the expected opening date was pushed to late 2024.[40] Trial runs on various sections of the Katra–Banihal sector commenced in December 2023, with full-scale trial runs across the entire sector including the bridge in June 2024.[41][42] The bridge was planned to open for regular railway traffic in April 2025, which was later postponed due to adverse weather.[43] The bridge was opened for regular rail traffic by Indian prime minister Narendra Modi on 6 June 2025, with the launch of train services connecting Katra in the Jammu region and Srinagar in the Kashmir valley.[44][45][46]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 "Chenab Bridge". Railway technology. Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 "A marvel in steel". The Indian Express. 23 June 2024. Retrieved 1 July 2024.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail link update". Daily News and Analysis. 15 December 2024. Retrieved 1 January 2025.
  4. ↑ "Jammu-Srinagar national highway reopens after nearly a fortnight". The Hindustan Times. 9 September 2025. Retrieved 10 September 2025.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "A new Kashmir rail bridge that could be a game-changer for India". BBC News. 15 August 2024. Archived from the original on 25 August 2024. Retrieved 1 September 2024.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 "Tracking Jammu and Kashmir rail history". The Hindustan Times. 28 October 2009. Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 "History of Railways in J&K". Daily Excelsior. 6 October 2019. Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 "History of Railways in Jammu & Kashmir". Early Times. 1 January 2016. Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 9.5 9.6 9.7 "India joins the superlative club, we now have the world's highest rail bridge". 15 February 2013. Archived from the original on 20 September 2022. Retrieved 17 September 2022.
  10. ↑ "Chenab Rail bridge will be highest in the world". The Hindu. 17 January 2008. Archived from the original on 20 January 2008. Retrieved 14 August 2008.
  11. ↑ 11.00 11.01 11.02 11.03 11.04 11.05 11.06 11.07 11.08 11.09 11.10 11.11 P. Pulkkinen; S. Hopf b; A. Jutila (2012). "Conceptual design of the Chenab Bridge in India" (PDF). Procedia Engineering. 40: 189–194. doi:10.1016/j.proeng.2012.07.078.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3 12.4 12.5 12.6 "Quixplained: Chenab arch bridge which will connect Kashmir to Kanyakumari". The Indian Express. 7 April 2021. Archived from the original on 9 April 2021. Retrieved 9 April 2021.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 13.3 13.4 13.5 13.6 13.7 13.8 Nag, Devanjana (16 January 2020). "Chenab bridge: World's highest rail bridge taller than Eiffel Tower, can withstand blasts!". The Financial Express. Archived from the original on 6 February 2020. Retrieved 12 October 2021.
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 14.2 14.3 "Salient Features of the Chenab and Anji Khad Bridges" (PDF). Konkan Railway Corporation. Archived from the original (PDF) on 8 December 2003. Retrieved 14 August 2008.
  15. ↑ "Earthquake risk: Check which parts of India are in top seismic zone". India Today. Retrieved 1 June 2025.
  16. ↑ "Modi flags off inaugural train from Katra". The Hindu. 4 July 2014. Archived from the original on 12 September 2024. Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  17. ↑ 17.00 17.01 17.02 17.03 17.04 17.05 17.06 17.07 17.08 17.09 17.10 17.11 17.12 "Railways complete the Arch closure of the iconic Chenab Bridge, World's highest Railway Bridge". Ministry of Railways (Press release). 5 April 2021. Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  18. ↑ "All you need to know about world's highest Chenab railway bridge inaugurated today". The Indian Express. 6 June 2025. Retrieved 1 August 2025.
  19. ↑ "World's highest rail bridge to come up across Chenab river". The Hindustan Times. 17 February 2013. Archived from the original on 17 February 2013. Retrieved 17 February 2013.
  20. ↑ "The Kashmir valley is not far". The Hindu. 7 April 2024. Archived from the original on 9 April 2024. Retrieved 11 April 2024.
  21. ↑ "Chenab Rail Bridge, Jammu and Kashmir, India". Railway Technology. Archived from the original on 15 April 2021. Retrieved 4 July 2013.
  22. ↑ "Indian Railways makes history;Awards largest bridge contract in J&K". Project Monitor. Archived from the original on 20 February 2008. Retrieved 1 September 2008.
  23. ↑ "Chenab Railway Bridge in J&K nears completion with golden joint". The Indian Express. 5 August 2022. Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  24. ↑ "J&K The railway bridge being built on the Chenab river will be 35 meters higher than the Eiffel Tower". 3 May 2017. Archived from the original on 28 October 2021. Retrieved 12 October 2021.
  25. ↑ "Work Resumes on Tallest Rail Bridge in India". Railway Technology. 10 June 2010. Archived from the original on 2 October 2012. Retrieved 1 November 2012.
  26. ↑ Jha, Srinand (6 November 2017). "Railways launches main arch of Chenab: World's highest rail bridge an impressive feat but are celebrations misplaced?". Firstpost. Archived from the original on 20 February 2018. Retrieved 20 February 2018.
  27. ↑ "World's highest railway bridge, taller than Eiffel Tower, nearing completion in J&K". Zee News. 13 November 2018. Archived from the original on 8 October 2019. Retrieved 8 October 2019.
  28. ↑ Sagotra, Yogesh (7 November 2017). "World's tallest railway bridge on Chenab to complete by May 2019". Greater Kashmir. Archived from the original on 8 June 2019. Retrieved 8 October 2019.
  29. ↑ "Kashmir rail link to see further delay after work stops yet again". The Kashmir Walla. 1 December 2018. Archived from the original on 27 October 2021. Retrieved 12 October 2021.
  30. ↑ "Chenab rail bridge to miss 2020 deadline". Policy Times. 3 December 2018. Archived from the original on 6 May 2021. Retrieved 13 December 2018.
  31. ↑ Jacob, Shine (19 August 2019). "Railway project to link Kashmir with rest of India put on fast track". Business Standard. Archived from the original on 6 September 2019. Retrieved 6 September 2019.
  32. ↑ "Indian Railways completes close to 90 percent work on world's highest Chenab rail bridge". Zee News. 24 June 2022. Archived from the original on 17 July 2022. Retrieved 17 July 2022.
  33. ↑ "Chenab Bridge: Before 'Golden' Launch Today, Cross Journey Behind Making J&K's Marvel". News18. 13 August 2022. Archived from the original on 13 August 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2022.
  34. ↑ "Chenab Bridge, World's Highest Rail Bridge Taller Than Eiffel Tower, Inaugurated Today". India.com. 13 August 2022. Archived from the original on 13 August 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2022.
  35. ↑ "Track-laying work on world's highest railway bridge starts". Greater Kashmir. 21 February 2023. Archived from the original on 21 February 2023. Retrieved 1 June 2024.
  36. ↑ "Track-laying work begins on world's highest rail bridge in J&K's Reasi". Hindustan Times. 21 February 2023. Archived from the original on 21 February 2023. Retrieved 21 February 2023.
  37. ↑ "Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project on Chenab Bridge: Track laying work begins on world's highest Railway bridge". The Financial Express. 23 February 2023. Archived from the original on 21 February 2023. Retrieved 21 February 2023.
  38. ↑ "The Chenab Rail Bridge – India". Wobo. 15 April 2024. Archived from the original on 2 August 2025. Retrieved 10 June 2025.
  39. ↑ "Railway to Connect Kashmir with Rest of India by Start of 2024, Ladakh to Get 500 Towers: Ashwini Vaishnaw". News18. 25 March 2023. Archived from the original on 28 March 2023. Retrieved 25 March 2023.
  40. ↑ Porecha, Maitri (21 February 2024). "Plans to connect Kashmir with rest of India through rail pushed to July". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 4 March 2024. Retrieved 8 March 2024.
  41. ↑ "First electric engine train trial run conducted at Sumbal, Sangal Rly stations". Greater Kashmir. 11 February 2024. Retrieved 1 June 2025.
  42. ↑ "Railways Successful Trial Run on Worlds Highest Chenab Bridge in Kashmir". Zee News. 22 June 2024. Archived from the original on 22 June 2024. Retrieved 22 June 2024.
  43. ↑ "Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat launch hits weather hurdle; PM Modi's Jammu visit on April 19 postponed, new dates soon". Live Mint. 16 April 2025. Archived from the original on 17 April 2025. Retrieved 19 April 2025.
  44. ↑ "Chenab Rail Bridge to bring Delhi and Kashmir closer | Why is it important". The Hindustan Times. 4 June 2025. Retrieved 4 June 2025.
  45. ↑ "PM opens landmark Chenab Bridge, flags off Vande Bharat in massive Kashmir push". India Today. 6 June 2025. Retrieved 1 July 2025.
  46. ↑ "PM Modi inaugurates world's highest railway bridge over Chenab river". The Hindustan Times. 6 June 2025. Retrieved 6 June 2025.

External links[edit | edit source]

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