Prime minister Narendra Modi has flagged off the inaugural Katra-Udhampur train today on his first visit to Jammu and Kashmir after assuming office.
The Prime Minister flagged off a Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) which will serve as special train to the Hindu holy shrine of Vaishno Devi.
Katra-Udhampur rail link is around 25 kilometers long and consists of the 9.4 kilometers long Udhampur - Chak Rakhwal and 15.5 kilometers long Chak Rakhwal- Mata Vaishno Devi Katra sections.
The approximate cost of this section is Rs 1,132 crores. The bridge on River Jhajjar is the longest steel girder bridge in India with a height of 85 meters. There are 8 tunnels and 29 minor bridges on Udhampur-Katra track.
Meanwhile, the Valley is facing a shutdown call given by Kashmiri separatist Leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani and unprecedented security arrangements for the PM's visit.