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The Anji Khad bridge, Indian Railways' first cable-stayed bridge that's set to connect Katra and Reasi in the Jammu & Kashmir region. | Photo Credit: PTI |
India is set to achieve a significant milestone in the field of engineering as the Indian Railways is constructing the first-ever "cable-stayed" railway bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge, under the Udampur-Srinagar-Baramulla (USBRL) railway project in the Reasi district of Jammu & Kashmir. This engineering marvel is an asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge, balanced on the axis of a central pylon, and boasts a total length of 725 meters, with the main bridge being 473.25 meters long.
Introduction
The Anji Khad Bridge is a testament to the Indian Railways' aim of connecting Jammu & Kashmir with the rest of India through all-weather rail connectivity. With trains running at speeds of 100 kilometers per hour on the bridge, the Anji Khad Bridge will provide a vital link in the region's infrastructure.
Design
The Anji Khad Bridge is an example of exceptional engineering, built to handle heavy storms and wind speeds of up to 213 kilometers per hour. The bridge is supported by 96 cables, with the cable length varying from 82 meters to 295 meters. Its design is such that even an explosion with up to 40 kg of explosives will not be able to destroy it. To ensure the bridge's structural health, a large number of sensors have been placed on the Anji Bridge, which will monitor it regularly.
Construction
Constructing the Anji Khad Bridge was no easy feat, given the extremely daunting geological conditions in which it was built. According to Indian Railways, detailed site-specific investigations were carried out by IIT Roorkee and IIT Delhi to ensure the bridge's safety and stability.
Location and Connectivity
The Anji Khad Bridge is located in the young fold mountains of Himalaya, which added to the engineering challenges of building it. The bridge connects Katra and Reasi via tunnels T2 and T3 on the Katra-Banihal section.
Features
The total deck width of the Anji Khad Bridge is 15 meters, with the main span of the bridge being 290 meters. The approach bridge of 38 meters on the Katra end is planned, the ancillary viaduct is 120 meters long, and the central embankment is 94.25 meters long. The bridge's design and features make it an engineering marvel that will not only provide connectivity but also leave the world awestruck.
Benefits
The Anji Khad Bridge will serve as a significant link in the Udampur-Srinagar-Baramulla (USBRL) railway project, aimed at connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India. This project will provide all-weather rail connectivity to the region and will bring social and economic growth.
Impact
The Anji Khad Bridge is an essential part of India's infrastructure development plan and will positively impact the entire region. The bridge will provide vital connectivity to Jammu & Kashmir and boost the region's tourism and trade.
Conclusion
The Anji Khad Bridge is not just a railway bridge but a masterpiece of engineering that will boost India's infrastructure development plan. The bridge is an achievement in itself and a significant step towards connecting India's regions. The Anji Khad Bridge is a testament to Indian engineering and innovation.
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FAQs
- What is the Anji Khad bridge? The Anji Khad bridge is India's first cable-stayed railway bridge, located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.
- What is the length of the bridge? The total length of the bridge is 725 meters, with the main bridge being 473.25 meters long.
- What is the design of the bridge? The Anji Khad bridge is an asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge balanced on the axis of a central pylon.
- What is the speed of trains on the bridge? Trains will be able to run at speeds of 100 kilometers per hour on the bridge.
- What are the benefits of the Anji Khad bridge? The bridge will significantly improve connectivity in the region, reducing travel time and boosting the local economy. It will also withstand heavy storms and wind speeds.