PROGRESS OF JAMMU-UDHAMPUR RAIL LINK WORK
The 53.6 kilometre
long Jammu Tawi—Udhampur broad gauge rail link project is progressing
as per the schedule and is targeted for completion in March 2004.
The project cost
is likely to be Rs. 510 crores. Till June 30, 2003, Rs. 431.03
crores has been incurred.
The Jammu—Udhampur
rail link passes through unstable and difficult geological formations,
highly undulating and varying hilly terrain of Shivalik ranges
of Himalayas. Out of the total length of 53.6 kilometres, 10.28
kilometres lie in tunnels and 5.16 kilometres on bridges covering
20 per cent and 10 per cent respectively of the project.
The elevation difference
between Jammu and Udhampur is 290 metres. This indicates ruggedness
of the alignment. Despite such constraints, it would be possible
to achieve a speed potential of 100 kilometres per hour on this
line.
So far, tunnelling
to the tune of 100 per cent, earth work 100 per cent, important
and major bridges 86.11 per cent, minor bridges 100 per cent and
track linking 21.50 per cent have been completed.
When completed, the
engineering marvel of Jammu—Udhampur rail link would have many
firsts on Indian Railways. It would have fully compacted embankment
of 42 metres, high constructed, to be the highest on Indian Railways.
Reinforced earth has been provided at identified sites. Besides,
ballasted track is provided on bridges and ballastless track in
long tunnels for a better riding quality. Hollow reinforced concrete
piers have been provided on all viaducts and bridges from earthquake
points. Added to this, highest bridge, 77 metres high, has been
constructed, which is taller than Qutub Minar (72.5 metres high).
Prestressed concrete girder of 102 metres has been cast, which
is the longest first on Indian Railways. Above all, forced ventilation
has been provided in long tunnels for fresh air inside the tunnel.
