India has marked a historic milestone in its rail infrastructure with the inauguration of the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge. Located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, this engineering wonder connects the Kauri and Bakkal stations as part of the ambitious Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) Project.

Built 359 meters above the Chenab River, even taller than the Eiffel Tower, this steel-arch bridge is a masterpiece that brings the dream of connecting Kashmir to the Indian Railways network to life.

For rail travelers and food lovers alike, this bridge is not just a feat of engineering but a new route filled with convenience, scenic beauty, and even freshly delivered food on train from services like YatriRestro, an Official IRCTC Partner. Let’s explore what makes this bridge such a transformative development in rail travel across India.

 

The Chenab Rail Bridge – Key Facts & Features

• Total Length: 1,315 meters (4,314 ft)
• Height from River Bed: 359 meters (1,178 ft)
• Main Span: 467 meters (1,532 ft)
• Steel Used: Over 28,600 tonnes
• Concrete Used: 66,000 cubic meters
• Bridge Width: 13.5 meters, designed for double railway tracks

The bridge consists of two parts: a 530-meter approach bridge and a 785-meter deck arch bridge. Designed to last 120 years, it can handle wind speeds up to 266 km/h, temperatures as low as -20°C, and even earthquakes of magnitude 8.

It was built to handle the toughest Himalayan terrain with blast-resistant steel, cutting-edge corrosion-proof coatings, and a deep focus on seismic safety.

 

Vande Bharat Express Now Runs Over Chenab Bridge

India’s flagship high-speed train, the Vande Bharat Express, now operates on the Katra–Srinagar route, officially crossing the Chenab Rail Bridge since June 6, 2025. Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this is the 69th Vande Bharat train and a symbol of India’s commitment to advanced rail connectivity.

Train Details:

• Train Numbers: 26401 (SMVD Katra → Srinagar), 26402 (Srinagar → SMVD Katra)
• Distance Covered: Approx. 189 km
• Travel Time: Around 3 hours
• Frequency: 6 days a week (except Tuesdays)
• Classes: AC Chair Car & Executive Class
• Features: Onboard Wi-Fi, infotainment, comfortable seats, large windows, and YatriRestro’s onboard food delivery

This new route is a gift to travelers, whether you’re a pilgrim headed to Vaishno Devi, a tourist exploring Srinagar, or a local transporting apples and walnuts.

 

More Train Services on the Chenab Rail Bridge and This Route

Along with Vande Bharat, two Mail Express trains now operate daily between Katra and Srinagar, offering multiple travel options for commuters.

• Morning Express: Departs Katra at 9:50 AM, reaches Srinagar by 1:10 PM
• Afternoon Express: Departs at 3:00 PM, reaches by 6:20 PM

Return journeys from Srinagar also run twice daily. Passengers are encouraged to book tickets in advance due to high demand, especially on weekends.

 

YatriRestro – Fresh Food in Train at 359 Meters Above River Chenab

As you travel through breathtaking Himalayan views and over the world’s tallest rail bridge, don’t miss the chance to enjoy delicious meals from YatriRestro. Our train food delivery service ensures:

• Fresh meals at your seat
• Regional cuisine, snacks, beverages, and combo options
• Hygienic packaging and timely delivery
• Online ordering through the food in train mobile app or website

Whether you're watching the sun glisten over the Chenab River or crossing the tunnels of Pir Panjal, a warm, tasty meal makes the journey even more memorable.

 

Construction Journey of Chenab Rail Bridge (World’s Largest Bridge)

• Project Planning: Started in 1983, construction began in earnest in 2017
• Main Arch Completed: April 2021
• Bridge Fully Ready: August 2022
• Trial Runs: June 2024
• Official Inauguration: June 6, 2025

Overcoming extreme weather, tough terrain, and safety concerns, the bridge was constructed by Indian and global teams. More than 70 villages are now better connected, improving access to healthcare, education, and markets.

 

Key Engineers Behind the Chenab Rail Bridge

1. Dr. G. Madhavi Latha
2. Mr. R.K. Singh
3. Afcons Infrastructure Limited
4. Konkan Railway Corporation (KRC)
5. Collaborating Institutions (IIT Roorkee, IIT Delhi, IISc, DRDO, and the Geological Survey of India)

Impact on Kashmir: Connectivity, Economy, and Security

The Chenab Rail Bridge is more than a transport link, it’s a lifeline for the Kashmir Valley:

• Economic Boost: Farmers can now transport apples, walnuts, and saffron with ease
• Tourism Growth: Tourists from across India can access Kashmir without flight delays or snow-locked roads
• Defense Access: Provides all-weather connectivity for Indian Army troops in sensitive regions like Ladakh
• Village Connectivity: Over 2,000 km of access roads benefit residents of remote areas

 

Chenab Rail Bridge: Progress with a Pause – Environmental and Local Concerns

While the Chenab Rail Bridge is a symbol of India’s engineering brilliance and national integration, not everyone views its impact through the same lens. The project has also sparked genuine concern among local orchardists and environmental activists:

• Loss of agricultural land due to land acquisition
• Disruption of traditional livelihoods that depend on farming and horticulture
• Potential ecological damage to the fragile Himalayan ecosystem
• Disturbance to wildlife and native vegetation during and after construction

Government Response:

In response, authorities have initiated sustainable development measures, including:

• Eco-sensitive construction practices
• Long-term environmental monitoring
• Reforestation and soil stabilization efforts

Authorities are working on sustainable measures to minimize long-term environmental impact.

 

Chenab Rail Bridge: A Journey Worth Taking

The Chenab Rail Bridge isn’t just India’s tallest, it’s one of the most important. Whether you’re a tourist, a pilgrim, or a local commuter, the bridge makes travel to Kashmir smoother, safer, and spectacular.

So the next time you’re on board the Vande Bharat Express, crossing the mighty Chenab River, remember to pre-order your favorite meal with YatriRestro an Official IRCTC Partner. Let us serve you hot, fresh food while you enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime view, on top of the world!

Plan your journey, book your train tickets, and order your food with YatriRestro. Because when you're this high up, every moment and every bite should be unforgettable.