Lieutenant Governor Chairs Preparatory Meeting Ahead of PM Modi’s Historic Visit to Katra

Srinagar, June 4, 2025: In anticipation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Katra on June 6, 2025, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high-level preparatory meeting at Raj Bhawan, Srinagar, to ensure seamless arrangements for the landmark event. The visit will mark the inauguration of the Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, and the flag-off of the Vande Bharat train service connecting Kashmir to Kanyakumari, a significant milestone in India’s rail connectivity.

The meeting, attended by senior administrative and police officials, including Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, Additional DGP Armed Anand Jain, and Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, focused on key aspects such as security, crowd management, protocol procedures, and event logistics. Lieutenant Governor Sinha emphasized the need for meticulous coordination between civil and police authorities to ensure the event’s success.

The Chenab Bridge, a cornerstone of the 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), is part of India’s ambitious project to provide year-round connectivity to the Kashmir Valley. The rail link will connect the valley to Kanyakumari, symbolizing a new era of integration and accessibility. During his visit, the Prime Minister is also expected to inspect the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, while traveling by train to Katra.

Lieutenant Governor Sinha urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir to participate in large numbers to make the launch a memorable occasion. “This is a historic moment for the region and the nation. I appeal to everyone to join and celebrate this transformative achievement,” he said.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh, in a post on X, hailed the Chenab Bridge as “a proud symbol of New India’s strength and vision,” underscoring its significance in boosting regional connectivity and economic growth.

The Prime Minister’s visit, his first to Jammu and Kashmir since the launch of Operation Sindoor, comes amid heightened security measures following the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Local authorities in Katra are making extensive arrangements to ensure a smooth and secure event.

This historic occasion is expected to draw significant attention, with the Vande Bharat train and the Chenab Bridge set to redefine connectivity and tourism in the region, fostering economic opportunities and strengthening national integration.