USBRL project makes a mark in bridge building

The upcoming Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) has ushered in a new era for bridge building in such geologically complex terrain of Jammu and Kashmir. The project includes a network of 16 big and small bridges, including two with Italian technology -- with a total length of 2.3 kms. The bridges are being constructed by Afcons Infrastructure Ltd. Mumbai on the 66-km long alignment being executed by Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd. (KRCL).

For the first time in India, a series of 16 Pre-loaded Spring Dampers (PSDs) are being installed on Bridges No. 39 and 43 to counter seismic load and enhance safety. Imported from Italy, the PSDs installation will start next month and will be completed by December this year. These bridges are coming up in the Reasi, Bakkal, Kouri and Sangaldan sectors. The PSDs shall be installed in the main span and two platform spans of the two bridges, and the Italian carpentry teams for implementing them have reached the site. Additionally, a tie-down mechanism is being used on Bridge 30 which is facing the Chenab Valley, to counter the high wind velocity that will hit the structure and ensure its safety.