The world’s highest single-arch rail bridge, which is set to connect Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India by train, would prove a huge strategic advantage for the country, experts believe.
The project, which is yet to be completed, is a part of a larger infrastructural expansion along with more than 50 other highway, railway and power projects by the central government.
The rail bridge would help in transporting military personnel and equipment around the year to the border areas, they say, adding that it would be a great support for the armed forces dealing with cross border terrorism in the region.
The all-weather railway line of a 272km, which passes through Jammu, will go all the way to the Kashmir valley.
The exiting road link to the valley is often cut off during winter months in view of heavy snowfall that leads to blockages.
Strategic affairs experts believe that the bridge will help India in managing any adventurism by Pakistan and China.
India and Pakistan – the nuclear-armed neighbours – have fought two wars over Kashmir since independence in 1947.
The region has been a flashpoint between the two for decades.
The construction of the bridge over the River Chenab in the Reasi district of Jammu took more than 20 years to complete.
The rail bridge is 35m taller than the Eiffel Tower and the first train on it is set to run soon between Bakkal and Kauri areas.
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Experts are also of the opinion that all-weather connectivity to the Kashmir valley would give a much-needed boost to the region’s economy.
Poor connectivity, especially during the months of winter, has been a major concern for the valley’s largely agriculture-dependent businesses.
The new railway line would give farmers access to new regions in southern parts of the country, they said.
The project would also help tourism in the valley.
