Maharaja Pratap Singh's dream turns a reality

Modi will also inaugurate the Chenab bridge, which will be the world's highest railway arch bridge

- PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

A century-old dream of connecting the Kashmir Valley by rail is finally turning into reality as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off the first Vande Bharat train from Katra to Kashmir Friday.

He will also inaugurate the Chenab bridge, the world's highest railway arch bridge, marking a historic milestone in India's infrastructure development.

The vision dates back to March 1, 1892, when Maharaja Pratap Singh of the Dogra dynasty proposed a railway line to Kashmir. British engineers were engaged to survey the treacherous terrain, and between 1898 and 1909, three detailed reports were submitted. The first, by DA Adam, suggested a narrow-gauge electric railway, but was rejected due to elevation challenges. The second, by WJ Weightman, proposed a route from Abbottabad along the Jhelum River, which was also declined. The third report, by engineer Wild Blood, recommending a route along the Chenab River through Reasi, was finally accepted.