Udhampur-Baramulla section is set to get an extension till Sumber now. The goal will soon be achieved as the Indian Railways have conducted a successful trial of the EMU train through the longest transportation tunnel i.e., the Khari-Sumber Section. This 13 km stretch between Khari and Sumber will be made operational soon and will be followed by an extension of connectivity to the Sangaldan area in the Gool sub-division of Ramban.
Union Railway Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw shared the update via his X.com account. The post was accompanied by a video of the EMU train running on the tracks of the Khari-Sumber section in Jammu & Kashmir. The caption on the video shared by the Railway Minister, said, “Trials Successful: EMU runs through Bharat’s longest transportation tunnel (13 km)!!!”
An electric multiple unit or EMU is a multiple-unit train consisting of self-propelled carriages. The train is operated using electricity as the main power. An EMU requires no separate locomotive, as electric traction motors are incorporated within one or a number of the carriages.
Indian Railways EMU In J&K: Watch Video
Trials Successful: EMU runs through Bharat's longest transportation tunnel (13 km)!!!
📍Khari-Sumber section, Jammu & Kashmir. pic.twitter.com/tRWxj9Xv19
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) January 25, 2024
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link project was initiated by the Indian Railways to provide Jammu and Kashmir with a reliable, alternative, and all-seasons public transport system. The construction of bridges and tunnels in this region was a challenging task due to the risk of an earthquake, strong winds, and adverse geographical conditions.
Despite the difficulties, the railway engineers demonstrated their exceptional skills, self-confidence, and application of technology, bringing the project close to completion, according to Indian Railways.
The Katra-Banihal rail link, which is 111 km long, comprises over 87 percent of the stretch and consists of tunnels and bridges. This route boasts 37 bridges and 28 tunnels, including India’s longest transportation tunnel which measures 13 km. The majority of the nine stations within the link are ingeniously integrated within tunnels and situated on top of bridges.