In a landmark event ahead of the launch of train services to Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Jammu Railway Division from New Delhi. Calling it a historic milestone, the Prime Minister highlighted the transformative potential of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla (USBRL) rail line, which will significantly enhance connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir and link the region seamlessly with the rest of India.

“Integration and Progress”

Speaking via video conferencing, Modi lauded the inauguration of the Jammu Railway Division as a monumental step towards integrating Jammu and Kashmir into the national railway network. “Completion of the Chenab Bridge—the world’s highest railway arch bridge—and the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed bridge, marks an unparalleled feat of engineering. These structures will be pivotal in fostering economic growth and regional prosperity,” he said.

The Chenab and Anji Khad bridges, located in Reasi district, are critical components of the Katra-Baramulla railway track. Modi noted that these projects epitomize India’s commitment to “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” underscoring the Government’s dedication to holistic development.

Event Highlights

The virtual inauguration was attended by prominent figures, including:

• Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw (virtually present)
• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh
• Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha
• Chief Minister Omar Abdullah
• Lok Sabha MP Jugal Kishore Sharma
• Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma
• MLA Vikram Randhawa
• Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo

Senior officials from the Railway, civil, and police administration also graced the occasion.

Enhanced Connectivity

The newly inaugurated Jammu Railway Division covers 742.1 km of tracks, including the Pathankot-Jammu-Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla section, Bhogpur Sirwal-Pathankot, Batala-Pathankot, and Pathankot-Joginder Nagar sections. This development is set to:

• Improve connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of India
• Boost employment opportunities
• Drive tourism and socio-economic growth

An official statement remarked that the division fulfills long-pending aspirations and marks a major leap forward for regional infrastructure.

Transformative Railway Milestones

Modi reflected on the historic transformation of Indian Railways over the last decade:

• Electrification Milestone: Nearly 100% electrification achieved, compared to 35% in 2014
• Railway Tracks Added: 30,000 km of new tracks laid
• Employment Boost: Lakhs of jobs created within the railway sector
• Vande Bharat Trains: Over 50 operational trains reducing travel time across major routes
• Metro Expansion: Metro services now operational in 21 cities, with further plans underway

“The Railways are no longer just a means of transport but a catalyst for growth,” Modi asserted, emphasizing its role in driving trade, industry, and employment opportunities.

Looking Ahead: High-Speed Rail and Beyond

Modi promised that bullet trains are not a distant dream for India, as the country accelerates its pace in “new-age connectivity.” The modernisation of the railways aligns with India’s aspirations of becoming a global leader in infrastructure and mobility.

The Prime Minister’s vision emphasizes not just connectivity but also the socio-economic development of every region. “From the Chenab bridge to the Vande Bharat trains, we are laying the foundation for a truly developed Bharat,” he said.

Key Facts: USBRL Project

• Chenab Bridge: World’s highest railway arch bridge
• Anji Khad Bridge: India’s first cable-stayed bridge
• Region Covered: Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail line
• Key Benefits: Improved connectivity, economic progress, employment opportunities, and enhanced tourism potential

What Lies Ahead

The newly inaugurated Jammu Railway Division and the USBRL project will undoubtedly serve as a cornerstone for progress in Jammu and Kashmir. The region, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” is poised to experience unprecedented growth in tourism, trade, and infrastructure, bringing it closer to the heart of India.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, today announced the successful completion of a 4-lane, 2.35 km Banihal Bypass on NH-44. The new infrastructure is set to significantly improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance connectivity in the Jammu and Kashmir region.

In a post shared on social media platform X, Shri Gadkari wrote: “In Jammu & Kashmir, we have successfully completed a 4-lane, 2.35 km bypass in Banihal town at a cost of Rs 224.44 crore. Strategically located on the Ramban-Banihal section of NH-44, the bypass features 4 viaducts spanning 1,513 meters and 3 culverts, effectively addressing the persistent bottleneck caused by roadside markets and shops.”

Gradual Traffic Release
Initially, traffic will be released on 2 lanes of the bypass, with the full 4-lane capacity expected to be operational within the next 15 days after the completion of junction development near Banihal Railway Station.

Enhanced Connectivity and Security
The bypass is set to improve the traffic flow for tourists and defense vehicles traveling to the Kashmir valley. By significantly reducing congestion and travel time, it strengthens both regional connectivity and national security logistics. Moreover, the enhanced infrastructure will boost tourism prospects in the region, contributing to its economic development.

Project Overview and Delays
The Banihal Bypass project, initiated in January 2021, was originally scheduled for completion in December 2023 but faced a year-long delay due to unforeseen challenges. Stretching from Kharpora to Navayuga Tunnel, the bypass now diverts traffic away from Banihal town, easing congestion along the old alignment of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway.

Official Statements
Project Director of National Highway, Ramban Sector, Shri P. K. Phonsa, highlighted the importance of the bypass: “This critical infrastructure ensures unhindered traffic flow, reducing bottlenecks and easing the daily commute for locals and tourists alike. The Ramban Bypass stretch has already been completed, and with the Banihal section now operational, the entire highway is significantly improved.”

Visionary Leadership
Shri Gadkari praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that the project aligns with the government’s vision to foster economic growth and position Jammu & Kashmir as a premier tourist destination. The bypass not only represents a leap in infrastructure but also underscores the government’s commitment to progress and development.

Looking Ahead
With the new bypass now open for traffic, the region is poised for a transformative shift in connectivity and accessibility. Locals and travelers can look forward to smoother journeys and enhanced opportunities in the months to come.

This is 11TH BUILDING MATERIAL EXHIBITION with latest building materials from all over the country under one roof .
The event was visited by many prominent as well as general masses in very good numbers. People associated with construction thronged the venue enthusiastically.
Among various prominent personalities were Ch. Vikram Randhawa, MLA Bahu Constituency and Sh. Chander Prakash Ganga, MLA Vijaypur Constituency Jammu along with their staff graced the occasion. The day also witnessed very innovative and creative works done by students of Architecture and technical presentations by different companies.
valedictory function will be held on 6th Jan 2025 and Sh. Jugal Kishore Sharma MP of Jammu constituency will be the chief guest for the event. The Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir has a functioning Indian Institute of Architects (IIA) J&K Chapter comprising a dedicated team having Ar. Vikas Dubey – Chairman, Ar. Vishal Abrol – Vice Chairman, Ar. Anil Verma Jt. Hon. Secretary, Ar. Harbinder Pal Singh – Jt. Hon. Secy, Ar. Sanjeev Mahajan Hon. Treasurer, with nine executive members and two co-opted members.

In a rallying call to action, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) Chief Tariq Hameed Karra urged former Corporators and recent candidates of the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) elections to intensify efforts in safeguarding the core idea of India. He emphasized the urgent need to counter what he described as a divisive agenda led by the BJP-RSS combine.

Speaking at a high-level interaction held in Jammu, Karra underscored the Congress Party’s foundational philosophy, rooted in unity amidst diversity. He expressed grave concerns about threats to the secular fabric of India, stressing that the basic idea of the nation, which thrives on inclusivity and harmony, is under attack by communal and divisive forces.

“The Congress ideology is deeply aligned with the Constitution of India, which celebrates our diversity and promotes unity,” said Karra. “Today, this inclusive vision is being challenged by forces that seek to divide and disrupt the social harmony of our pluralistic society. It is our duty to resist these efforts with determination and vigor.”

Strengthening Grassroots Connections

The PCC chief spent the day in an interactive session with former Corporators and candidates, taking their feedback on organizational affairs and the party’s presence at the grassroots level. He advised them to actively engage with citizens in their wards, addressing local issues, and escalating significant concerns to the senior leadership for redressal.

“You are the face of the party in your communities,” Karra told attendees. “Your role in listening to people’s problems and voicing their concerns is crucial in strengthening the Congress’s mission.”

Countering False Narratives

Karra stressed the importance of combating what he called the “fake and misleading propaganda” of the BJP-RSS combine. He called on Congress workers to uphold and promote the party’s secular ideology, which he argued has been central to India’s success as a democratic and inclusive nation.

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the secular and democratic ethos of India remains intact,” Karra declared. “The Congress Party has always championed the values of equality, justice, and harmony, and we must continue to do so with unwavering resolve.”

A Renewed Call to Action

The interaction ended with a collective pledge from participants to uphold the party’s vision and work tirelessly to preserve India’s secular fabric. Karra’s impassioned appeal resonated with the audience, who committed to reinforcing Congress’s grassroots presence and standing firm against divisive forces.

As the Congress Party gears up for upcoming challenges, the meeting served as a reminder of its enduring commitment to the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution—a commitment that continues to inspire and unite its members in the face of adversity.