Chenab Bridge: The World's Highest Railway Marvel

Why the Chenab Railway Bridge is considered an engineering marvel of record height and design.

The Chenab Railway Bridge is the world's highest railway bridge, standing 359 meters above the Chenab River—35 meters taller than the Eiffel Tower. Its steel arch spans 467 meters, making it one of the longest such spans for a railway bridge in the world.

The design and construction project, built in the rugged Himalayas, overcame extreme terrain, harsh weather, and seismic risks. The bridge is engineered to withstand earthquakes up to magnitude 8, strong winds, and even powerful explosions, ensuring safety and durability in this unstable region.

Advanced computer modeling, cable-stayed construction, and high-strength steel were used to ensure stability and longevity. See construction process The bridge is expected to last 120 years and support train speeds of up to 100 km/h.

Strategic and social impact. It connects the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India, significantly improving transportation, trade, and integration in this geopolitically sensitive area.

The Chenab Railway Bridge stands as a testament to human ingenuity, combining record-breaking engineering with strategic national importance.