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Indian Prime Minister’s Visit Marks Strategic Milestone in Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his inaugural visit to Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) on Friday, following a recent conflict with Pakistan, to inaugurate a key railway line to the disputed area.
During his visit, Modi announced a series of multi-billion-dollar development projects aimed at transforming the predominantly Muslim region, which has been a focal point of rivalry between India and Pakistan since both nations achieved independence from British colonial rule in 1947.
The two nuclear-armed nations recently engaged in a four-day conflict, marking their most severe standoff since 1999, until a ceasefire was established on May 10.
“This event symbolizes a significant celebration of India’s unity and determination,” Modi stated as he crossed the elevated bridge to officially open it for rail traffic. He referred to the Chenab Bridge—a structure that connects two mountains—as “a testament to the growth of India.”
New Delhi claims that the Chenab Bridge is the “world’s highest railway arch bridge,” standing at 359 meters (1,117 feet) over a river. While other road and pipeline bridges may surpass this height, Guinness World Records has confirmed that Chenab holds the record for the highest railway bridge globally, overtaking China’s Najiehe Bridge.
A Showcase of Connectivity
Modi described the railway as “an extraordinary architectural achievement” that will enhance connectivity between the Indian plains and the rugged terrain of IIOJK.
This railway, which includes 36 tunnels and 943 bridges, stretches 272 kilometers (169 miles) and links Udhampur with Srinagar and Baramulla. It is anticipated to reduce travel time between Katra, located in the predominantly Hindu Jammu region, and Srinagar, the main city in IIOJK, to approximately three hours.
The new route will ease the transportation of people, goods, and military personnel, a task previously fraught with danger along treacherous mountain roads or reliant on air travel.
However, the projects have faced opposition. About 150 people staged a protest on the outskirts of Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Azir Ahmad Ghazali, who organized the rally, expressed that despite India’s infrastructural developments in the name of progress, the residents of Kashmir will not forgo their quest for freedom.
“We want to clearly communicate to the Indian government that the people of Kashmir have never accepted India’s imposed rule,” Ghazali declared.
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