Chenab Bridge designed to survive loss of a pier, Pg5

Key Facts:

• Chenab Bridge in Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir is the world’s highest arch-railway bridge, standing 359 meters above the Chenab River.

• Total length: 1,315 meters; Arch span: 467 meters

• The bridge is engineered to remain operational even if one of its eight piers fails, though at a reduced train speed.

• Designed to resist winds up to 220 km/h and withstand strong seismic activity in the Himalayan region.

Engineering Leadership:- Prof. G. Madhavi Lata, Civil Engineering Professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, conceptualized the foundation design.

Structural Innovations:

• Parabolic arch design ensures optimal load-bearing capacity.

• Use of cement grouting to stabilize fissured mountain slopes.

• Installation of rock anchors (steel rods) into slopes for additional reinforcement.

• Adaptive design approach to account for unpredictable geological features.

Strategic Significance:

• Part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), crucial for connectivity in a strategically sensitive region.

• Enhances both civilian access and military logistics in Jammu and Kashmir.

• Reflects indigenous engineering capacity and aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

• One of the few such arch-rail bridges in the world; comparable examples exist in China.

Mains Mock Question:

Engineering resilience and adaptive design are critical to infrastructure in high-risk areas. Illustrate with reference to the Chenab Railway Bridge.