Traveling by Train to Kashmir from Jammu is Now a Reality with the Udhampur-Baramulla Railway Link
With the inauguration of the full fledged Jammu-Baramulla Railway Link, the long-awaited dream of a direct train to Kashmir has finally become a reality. This monumental achievement marks a significant milestone in India’s railway history, connecting the picturesque Kashmir Valley in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country.
The newly opened railway link spans a distance of 338 kilometers, stretching from Jammu to Baramulla. This vital transportation corridor falls under the jurisdiction of the Firozpur railway division of Indian Railways’ Northern zone. Part of this railway route, known as the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramula Rail Link (USBRL), is instrumental in facilitating seamless connectivity to the region.
One of the most remarkable features of the Jammu-Baramulla Railway Link is the iconic Chenab Bridge, standing tall at a staggering height of 359 meters (1,178 feet). As the tallest railway bridge in the world, the Chenab Bridge serves as a symbol of engineering prowess and innovation.
Except for the Chenab Bridge, the rail route from Vaishnodevi Katra to Qazigund in Kashmir is filled with engineering marvels – long tunnels piercing through the mountains of the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas and bridges of magnificent heights spanning over riverways nestled between two hills. These structures add a sense of adventure to the train journey to Kashmir. The rail route from Vaishnodevi Katra to Qazigund in Kashmir features tunnels including Sangaldan Tunnel (7 km), Sumber Tunnel (10.2 km), Khari Tunnel (12.75 km), and Banihal Tunnel (8.6 km), each essential for navigating through the rugged terrain of the Pir Panjal range.
The USBRL spans a total distance of 338 kilometers, stretching from Baramulla to Udhampur. Along its route, the railway line passes through several significant towns and potential future extensions, reflecting the comprehensive scope of the project.
Here is the list of stations along the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramula Rail Link (USBRL), starting from the Jammu side and proceeding towards Baramulla:
- Jammu Tawi: 0 km
- Bajalta: 10 km
- Sangar: 14 km
- Manwal: 22 km
- Tawi Bridge: After Manwal
- Ramnagar: 44 km
- Udhampur: 53 km
- Chak Rakhwal: 62 km
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra: 78 km
- Bakkal: After Katra
- Reasi: After Bakkal
- Anji Khad Bridge: After Reasi
- Sangaldan Tunnels (including Sangaldan, Sawalkote, Dugga): 155 km
- Sumber Tunnel T48: 148 km
- Khari Tunnel T49: 138 km
- Banihal Tunnel T74R: 130 km
- Banihal: 130 km
- Qazigund: 112 km
- Sadura: 107 km
- Anantnag: 100 km
- Bijbehara: 93 km
- Panzgom: 86 km
- Awantipora: 79 km
- Kakapora: 69 km
- Pampore: 63 km
- Srinagar: 57 km
- Budgam: 46 km
- Nadigam: 41 km
- Mazhom: 31 km
- Pattan: 23 km
- Hamre: 15 km
- Sopore: 8 km
- Baramulla: 0 km
This comprehensive list provides a detailed overview of the stations along the USBRL route, showcasing the connectivity and accessibility it offers from Jammu to Baramulla.
The completion of the Jammu-Baramulla Railway Link has been a transformative endeavor, with a total project cost estimated at INR 28,000 crore (~US$3.5 billion) as of 2022. This ambitious project underscores India’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and promoting economic development in the region.
The opening of the railway link holds immense significance for both locals and tourists alike. It not only facilitates smoother transportation but also opens up new opportunities for tourism, trade, and commerce. Travelers can now embark on unforgettable journeys to explore the scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant landscapes of the Kashmir Valley with ease.
In conclusion, the inauguration of the Jammu-Baramulla Railway Link heralds a new chapter in India’s railway infrastructure, making the dream of a “Train to Kashmir” a reality. As trains chug along the tracks, they carry with them the promise of progress, prosperity, and connectivity to the breathtaking valleys of Kashmir.
