Daily Current Affairs : 23-February-2024

India these days celebrated the inauguration of its longest rail tunnel, T-50, which is a part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL). This significant achievement marks a new chapter in India’s railway infrastructure, especially in the area of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Importance of Tunnel T-50

T-50 stretches an impressive 12.77 kilometers, making it a vital component of the USBRL project. The construction of this tunnel was not easy and posed several challenges, including:

  • Geological Difficulties: The region’s complex geology made drilling and construction hard.
  • Weather Conditions: Harsh weather conditions often delayed progress.
  • Safety Risks: Ensuring worker safety was a primary challenge during construction.

Despite these challenges, the successful completion of Tunnel T-50 is a testament to the hard work and determination of the engineers and workers involved.

Enhancing Connectivity

The T-50 tunnel will significantly enhance connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. It aims to:

  • Boost Tourism: Improved access to scenic areas could attract more tourists.
  • Facilitate Trade: Easier transportation routes can benefit local businesses and trade.
  • Promote Development: Enhanced rail connectivity can lead to overall economic growth in the region.

Ongoing Projects: Silkyara-Barkot Tunnel

In addition to Tunnel T-50, construction is also underway for the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel project in Uttarkashi. This project is equally important for improving transportation in the area. The builders are taking necessary safety measures, including:

  • Regular Safety Checks: Conducting common inspections to identify potential hazards.
  • Protective Gear for Workers: Ensuring all workers are equipped with proper safety gear.
  • Emergency Protocols: Implementing clear emergency response plans for unforeseen situations.

Important Points:

Inauguration of Tunnel T-50: India’s longest rail tunnel, part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL).Length: T-50 spans 12.77 kilometers.Challenges in Construction:

  • Geological Difficulties: Complex geology made drilling and construction challenging.
  • Weather Conditions: Harsh weather often delayed progress.
  • Safety Risks: Ensuring worker safety was a major concern.

Significance of T-50:

  • Boost Tourism: Improved access to scenic areas could attract more visitors.
  • Facilitate Trade: Easier transportation routes benefit local businesses.
  • Promote Development: Enhanced rail connectivity can lead to economic growth in the region.

Ongoing Project: Silkyara-Barkot tunnel project in Uttarkashi aims to improve transportation.Safety Measures in Ongoing Projects:

  • Regular Safety Checks: Frequent inspections to identify hazards.
  • Protective Gear for Workers: Ensuring workers are equipped with safety equipment.
  • Emergency Protocols: Clear emergency response plans in place.

Why In News

India’s longest rail tunnel, T-50, part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), was inaugurated in Jammu and Kashmir, marking a significant milestone in the region’s infrastructure development and connectivity.

MCQs about India’s Longest Rail Tunnel: T-50

  1. What is the length of Tunnel T-50?
    A. 10.5 kilometers
    B. 12.77 kilometers
    C. 15 kilometers
    D. 8 kilometers
    Correct Answer: B. 12.77 kilometers
    Explanation: Tunnel T-50 spans an impressive length of 12.77 kilometers, making it the longest rail tunnel in India.
  2. Which of the following challenges did the construction of Tunnel T-50 face?
    A. Lack of funding
    B. Geological difficulties
    C. Insufficient workforce
    D. Environmental regulations
    Correct Answer: B. Geological difficulties
    Explanation: The construction of Tunnel T-50 faced several challenges, including complex geology, which made drilling and construction difficult.
  3. What is one of the aims of the T-50 tunnel?
    A. To increase air travel
    B. To boost tourism
    C. To develop highways
    D. To reduce railway fares
    Correct Answer: B. To boost tourism
    Explanation: One of the aims of the T-50 tunnel is to improve access to scenic areas, which could attract more tourists to Jammu and Kashmir.
  4. What safety measure is being implemented in the ongoing Silkyara-Barkot tunnel project?
    A. Reducing construction speed
    B. Regular safety checks
    C. Limiting the number of workers
    D. Installing cameras
    Correct Answer: B. Regular safety checks
    Explanation: In the Silkyara-Barkot tunnel project, regular safety checks are conducted to identify potential hazards and ensure the safety of workers.

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