Prime minister Narendra Modi celebrated the hoisting of the tricolour on the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge which was inaugurated on Friday, describing it as a moment of immense national pride and a testament to India’s growing capability to build futuristic infrastructure in the most challenging terrains.

In a post on X, he said: "The Tricolour flies high over the Chenab Rail Bridge! It’s a feeling of immense pride that this bridge seamlessly blends ambition with execution, reflecting India’s growing capability to build futuristic infrastructure in the most challenging terrains."

The PM laid the foundation stone, inaugurated and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth over Rs 46,000 crore at Katra in Jammu & Kashmir. 

In line with the commitment to boost rail infrastructure and connectivity in the region, he inaugurated the Chenab and Anji rail bridges and flagged off Vande Bharat Trains, enhancing connectivity within Jammu and Kashmir. He also laid the foundation stone for a new medical college in Jammu, reinforcing the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare facilities in the region, stating that these projects will accelerate development in Jammu and Kashmir, driving progress and prosperity. 

Underlining that generations in Jammu and Kashmir had long dreamt of railway connectivity, Modi said that dream has become a reality. Referring to a recent statement by chief minister Omar Abdullah, the PM noted that even as a student in seventh or eighth grade, Abdullah had been anticipating the completion of this project. Modi emphasized that the fulfillment of this long-awaited aspiration marks a historic moment for millions of people in Jammu and Kashmir, paving the way for enhanced connectivity and progress.

Stating that it is a privilege for their government that this ambitious railway project gained momentum during their tenure and has now been successfully completed, Modi spoke of the challenges encountered, like the difficult terrain, extreme weather conditions, and falling rocks in the mountains, making the project immensely tough and demanding. However, he remarked that their government has consistently chosen to face challenges head-on and overcome them with determination. 

Emphasising that both Chenab Bridge and Anji Bridge will serve as catalysts for prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir, the PM said, “These landmark projects will not only boost tourism but also benefit various sectors of the economy, creating new opportunities for businesses and industries.” He highlighted that enhanced rail connectivity between Jammu and Kashmir will open new doors for local entrepreneurs, driving economic growth. 

Underlining that their government is consistently creating new employment opportunities for the youth, with tourism emerging as a significant driver of economic growth and connectivity, Modi highlighted that tourism not only generates jobs but also fosters unity among people. Condemning Pakistan’s repeated attempts to disrupt this progress, the Prime Minister stated that it stands against humanity, social harmony, and economic prosperity. Referring to the April 22 incident in Pahalgam, Modi asserted that Pakistan attacked both Kashmiriyat and humanity, intending to incite violence in India and cripple the earnings of hardworking Kashmiris. He pointed out that this deliberate attack on tourists was meant to sabotage the flourishing tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir, which had witnessed record-high visitor numbers over the past few years. 

The PM remarked that Pakistan’s malicious intent directly impacted local workers, including horse riders, porters, guides, guest house owners, and shopkeepers, aiming to destroy their livelihoods. He praised the courage of young Adil, who stood against terrorists, but tragically lost his life while striving to support his family through honest labor. Modi reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting the people of Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that terrorism will never succeed in halting the region’s progress.

Lauding the resilience of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, the PM stated that their firm stand against Pakistan’s conspiracy sends a powerful message. He remarked that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir are now determined to confront terrorism head-on. Modi condemned the destructive impact of terrorism, recalling how it burned schools, devastated hospitals, and shattered generations in the valley. He noted that terrorism even made free and fair elections a major challenge, depriving people of their right to choose their representatives. The PM affirmed that the strength and determination displayed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir marks a turning point, signaling their commitment to peace, progress, and a brighter future.

Recalling that exactly one month ago, on this very night, India executed Operation Sindoor, delivering a decisive blow to Pakistan-based terrorists, the PM said, “Whenever Pakistan hears the name of operation Sindoor, it will be reminded of its humiliating defeat.” He emphasized that Pakistan’s military and terror networks never anticipated India’s bold move, and within minutes, the terror infrastructure they had built over decades was reduced to ruins. 

Highlighting the significant infrastructure development taking place in India’s international border regions, particularly in challenging terrains, the Prime Minister announced that hundreds of crores are being invested to improve connectivity and security. He stated that the Kathua-Jammu Highway is being upgraded into a six-lane expressway, while the Akhnoor-Poonch Highway is undergoing widening to facilitate smoother travel. Under the Vibrant Village Program, development initiatives in border villages have been accelerated, ensuring better living conditions and opportunities for residents. Shri Modi mentioned that 400 villages in Jammu and Kashmir, previously lacking all-weather connectivity, are now being linked with 1,800 kilometers of newly constructed roads. He announced that the government is allocating over Rs 4,200 crore for these infrastructure projects, reinforcing economic growth and regional development in border areas.

Jammu & Kashmir lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha, chief minister Omar Abdullah as well as union ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw, V. Somanna and Dr. Jitendra Singh were present among other dignitaries at the event.