World's Highest Chenab Railway Bridge Inaugurated Jammu Kashmir

The Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, the world’s highest railway bridge at 359 meters above the Chenab River, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2025, marking a historic achievement in India's infrastructure. Dr. Madhavi Latha, a professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and a geotechnical engineering expert from Andhra Pradesh, dedicated 17 years to the project, overcoming extreme weather, seismic challenges, and difficult terrain to ensure the bridge's stability and longevity. The 1,315-meter-long arch-shaped steel bridge is part of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link, enhancing connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of India. Dr. Latha, praised by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu as a “Telugu daughter” and a brilliant mind behind the project, also broke gender barriers during her career in engineering. The bridge, built to withstand wind speeds of up to 260 km/h and earthquakes up to magnitude 8, represents both a technological marvel and a symbol of national pride. Dr. Latha's contributions have earned her national recognition and serve as an inspiration, especially to young women in STEM fields.