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www.metrorailnews.in METRO RAIL NEWS -AUGUST - 2025 43This route connects the Reasi and Udhampur districts. This section passes through hilly terrain within the Shivalik and Trikuta ranges, featuring complex geological conditions and elevation changes. Engineering works on this stretch include 10.9 km of tunnelsThe section plays a functional role in regional connectivity and forms a part of the larger Udhampur%u2013Srinagar%u2013Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.First Passenger Train from Udhampur to Katra4. Katra%u2013Banihal Section: This section of the USBRL project encountered some of the most complex engineering challenges, primarily due to unstable geological conditions, unpredictable terrain. The alignment traverses a young mountainous fault region and a thrust fault zone within a seismically active Himalayan environment, adding to the construction difficulties.One of the most demanding components along the Katra%u2013Banihal stretch is the Chenab Bridge, designed to cross the Chenab River Gorge at a height of 359 meters above the riverbed. With a total length of 1,355 meters and a main arch span of 467 meters, it stands as one of the tallest railway bridges in the world.Another engineering feat is the Anji Khad Bridge, constructed to span a deep gorge of approximately 330 meters. A cablestayed design was adopted for this bridge, which makes it the first instance of such a structure being used in Indian Railways.1.Sangaldan- Banihal section: The 48km section connecting Sangaldan and Banihal became the first leg to become operational on the Katra Banihal section of the USBRL project. This line was inaugurated on 20 February 2024 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 2.Sangaldan-Reasi section: The work on this 46 km section was completed in June 2024. 3.Reasi Katra section: This 17km section was completed in December 20244.First Trial on Katra-Banihal Section: After years of waiting, Indian Railways conducted the first successful trial run on the Banihal%u2013Katra railway section on January 4, 2025.5.Inauguration of USBRL Project: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) on 6 June 20RAILWAY NEW DEVELOPMENT