A journey undertaken in June 2006 to Ferozepur, Jammu, Udhampur and Katra to see, among other things, bridge and tunnel construction on the Udhampur-Katra section of the line to Kashmir.
This section will delight bridge and viaduct enthusiasts, though I wonder why they have those lights on this particular bridge - security perhaps? By B Vohra
And tunnel walkers will have a field day. Most are well lit and the longest is about 2.4 km. The sequence: tunnel-viaduct over yawning chasm -tunnel occurs frequently
The famous Gambhir Bridge, which is some 65-70 m above the bed of the Ringal Khad, making it the highest bridge on this section.
Cab eye view of the Gambhir Bridge - the only covered bridge between JAT & UDH. By B Vohra
After finally crossing the Tawi,the line remains for a great distance on this viaduct. By B Vohra
Looking back - the Tawi Bridge is clearly discernible from the viaduct. By B Vohra
The almost perpendicular approach to the Dudhar Bridge. By B Vohra
Udhampur Station and yard - most passengers prefer to alight at the previous station - Ramnagar Road
In the hills one can never tell where the new alignment will appear. This is just beyond UHP, the building is the construction office. By B Vohra
The entrance to the problematic Tunnel No. 1, the first major tunnel after Udhampur. By B Vohra
Tunnel No. 1 has a "heaving" problem, where forces in the earth cause the walls and floor to bulge inwards
These steel arch supports have popped out of their grooves. By B Vohra
Chakarwaha station yard under construction, this will be the only crossing station betwen Udhampur and Katra
Looking towards Katra from Chakarwaha
This temple stood bang on the new alignment. Northern Railway Construction has built a new one for the village. Even so, it had to be taken down under police protection later, we were told.