Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated a series of development projects worth over Rs 460 billion in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, marking a pivotal moment for the region鈥檚 infrastructure and growth. Hailing it as a tribute to India鈥檚 unity, the Prime Minister emphasised that with the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi, the Kashmir Valley is now seamlessly connected to the nation鈥檚 railway network through the newly completed Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line (USBRL) project.
Among the key highlights were the inauguration of the Chenab and Anji bridges, both engineering marvels. The Chenab Bridge, now the world鈥檚 tallest railway arch bridge, surpasses the Eiffel Tower in height and is expected to become a major tourist attraction. The Anji Bridge, India鈥檚 first cable-supported railway bridge, stands as a testament to the nation鈥檚 engineering prowess. These structures are vital for all-weather connectivity across the mountainous region, enhancing both transportation and economic prospects.
The Prime Minister also flagged off two Vande Bharat Express trains connecting Katra and Srinagar, reducing travel time between the two cities by 2鈥�3 hours. With the USBRL project comprising 36 tunnels and 943 bridges across 272 kilometres, built at a cost of Rs 437.8 billion, it stands as a symbol of determination against natural challenges such as harsh terrain and climate.
Healthcare infrastructure saw a boost with the foundation laid for the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Katra, valued at over Rs 3.5 billion. This will be Reasi district鈥檚 first medical college and part of a wider initiative that has increased MBBS seats in the Union Territory from 500 to 1,300. The hospital鈥檚 capacity will also expand from 300 to 500 beds.
In road infrastructure, Modi inaugurated projects worth over Rs 19.5 billion, including the widening of the Rafiabad-Kupwara road and Shopian bypass on NH-444. Flyovers at Sangrama and Bemina junctions in Srinagar were also launched to reduce congestion.
Reflecting on the region鈥檚 progress, the Prime Minister highlighted the transformation brought about by government initiatives over the last 11 years. These include housing under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana for 40 million families, health cover for 500 million under Ayushman Bharat, and tap water for 120 million households through Jal Jeevan Mission. Over 250 million people have emerged from poverty, moving into the neo-middle class, with financial and welfare reforms supporting this shift.
Modi reiterated that youth in Jammu & Kashmir now dream of development, with active interest in retail, entertainment, and sports. He called upon them to join India鈥檚 manufacturing revolution through the Mission Manufacturing initiative, supporting the nation鈥檚 goal of becoming a top defence exporter.
On border security, he announced enhanced aid for families affected by cross-border shelling鈥擱s 200,000 for severely damaged homes and Rs 100,000 for partially damaged ones. Two new Border Battalions and two Women Battalions have also been formed. Under the Vibrant Village Programme, 1,800 km of roads are being constructed to connect 400 remote villages with an allocation of over Rs 42 billion.
Denouncing Pakistan鈥檚 attempts to disrupt peace through terrorism, Modi recalled the April 22 Pahalgam attack and the courage of local residents like Adil who stood up to terror. He reaffirmed the government鈥檚 zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and reiterated that the progress of Jammu & Kashmir would not be derailed.
The Prime Minister concluded by celebrating Jammu & Kashmir as a shining jewel in the crown of India, enriched by its culture, youth, and aspirations. He promised continued support for its people and development, driven by unity and resilience.
