Daily Current Affairs : 8-January-2025

The Indian Railways has successfully completed the Anji Khad Bridge, marking a significant achievement in the country’s railway infrastructure. This bridge is the first of its kind in India, being a cable-stayed rail bridge, and it plays a vital role in improving connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. The bridge is an essential part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which aims to enhance transport infrastructure in the region.

India’s First Cable-Stayed Rail Bridge: The Anji Khad Bridge: What You Should Know
Courtesy : Times of India

Location and Importance

The Anji Khad Bridge is located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. It connects the towns of Katra and Reasi, which are key parts of the USBRL project. This bridge serves as a critical link, helping to overcome the difficult terrain of the region. It spans the Anji River Valley, situated at a height of 331 meters above the riverbed, making it a remarkable feat of engineering.

Key Features of the Anji Khad Bridge

  • Length: The bridge has a total length of 725.5 meters, making it a significant structure.
  • Cable-Stayed Span: The bridge’s main span measures 473.25 meters and is supported by 96 cables, ranging from 82 to 295 meters in length. This feature makes the bridge both strong and flexible.
  • Main Pylon: The bridge is supported by a 193-meter-high pylon, which is the tallest in India for this type of bridge.

Significance of the Project

The completion of the Anji Khad Bridge is not only an engineering marvel but also a crucial step in improving the transport network in Jammu and Kashmir. The USBRL project, which this bridge is a part of, aims to connect remote regions, facilitating better movement of goods and people. This enhanced connectivity will contribute to economic development, tourism, and better accessibility to the region.

Important Points
  • Anji Khad Bridge is India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge.
  • Part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
  • Located in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir, connecting Katra and Reasi.
  • Spans the Anji River Valley, at a height of 331 meters above the riverbed.
  • Bridge length: 725.5 meters.
  • Cable-stayed span: 473.25 meters, supported by 96 cables (lengths from 82-295 meters).
  • The main pylon stands at 193 meters tall from the foundation.
  • Improves connectivity and transport in the region.
  • Aims to boost economic development, tourism, and accessibility in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Symbolizes India’s advancements in engineering and infrastructure.
Why In News

The Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in advanced engineering and infrastructure development. This remarkable feat will help address long-standing connectivity challenges in the difficult terrain of Jammu and Kashmir.

MCQs about India’s First Cable-Stayed Rail Bridge: The Anji Khad Bridge
  1. Where is the Anji Khad Bridge located?
    A. Uttar Pradesh
    B. Jammu and Kashmir
    C. Himachal Pradesh
    D. Rajasthan
    Correct Answer: B. Jammu and Kashmir
    Explanation: The Anji Khad Bridge is located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir and is a part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
  2. What is the height of the Anji Khad Bridge’s main pylon from the foundation?
    A. 100 meters
    B. 150 meters
    C. 193 meters
    D. 250 meters
    Correct Answer: C. 193 meters
    Explanation: The main pylon of the Anji Khad Bridge stands at 193 meters from the foundation, making it the tallest in India for this type of bridge.
  3. What is the length of the cable-stayed span of the Anji Khad Bridge?
    A. 200 meters
    B. 400 meters
    C. 473.25 meters
    D. 600 meters
    Correct Answer: C. 473.25 meters
    Explanation: The cable-stayed span of the Anji Khad Bridge measures 473.25 meters, supported by 96 cables.
  4. What is the primary purpose of the Anji Khad Bridge in the context of the USBRL project?
    A. To reduce traffic congestion in urban areas
    B. To improve transport connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir
    C. To provide a tourist attraction
    D. To connect the state capitals of India
    Correct Answer: B. To improve transport connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir
    Explanation: The Anji Khad Bridge is an essential part of the USBRL project, which aims to enhance transport infrastructure and improve connectivity between remote areas in Jammu and Kashmir.

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