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Daily News Analysis

ANJI KHAD BRIDGE

1st May, 2023 MISCELLANEOUS

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Context: The Prime Minister praised the completion of the Anji Khad Bridge, India's first cable-stayed rail bridge.

Details

Anji Khad Bridge

  • It connects the Katra and Reasi sections of the Jammu–Baramulla line in Jammu and Kashmir.
  • It is India's first cable-stayed railway bridge, which means it is supported by cables attached to towers instead of arches or beams.
  • The bridge spans over the Anji River, a tributary of the Chenab River, at a height of 196 metres above the river bed.
  • It has a total length of 473.25 metres, with a main span of 290 metres supported by 96 cables.
  • The bridge is designed to withstand high wind speeds, seismic activity, and temperature variations.
  • The bridge was built by Hindustan Construction Company using advanced technology and materials.
  • The bridge is part of the Jammu–Baramulla line, which will provide rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley and boost tourism and economic development.

Anji River, a tributary of the Chenab River

  • The Anji River and the Chenab River are two important tributaries of the Indus River system.
  • The Anji River originates in the Himalayas and flows through the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab before joining the Chenab River near Akhnoor.
  • The Chenab River is formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers in the Lahaul and Spiti districts of Himachal Pradesh.
    • It flows through Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab in India and then enters Pakistan, where it joins the Indus River near Mithankot.
  • Both rivers have significant hydroelectric potential and are used for irrigation, drinking water, and transportation.
  • They also have cultural and religious significance for the people living along their banks.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. The Anji Khad Bridge is India's first cable-stayed railway bridge. The bridge is in which state?

(A)    Himachal Pradesh

(B)    Uttarakhand

(C)    Jammu and Kashmir

(D)   Arunachal Pradesh

Answer: C

https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1920671