Looking back down the line from the top of Tunnel No. 3 towards Udhampur - the obstinate temple is visible.

Major Tunnel No. 3, which was still being dug out in June (since completed). The pipe carries fresh air to the tunnel head, where most of the equipment works on diesel. Other material like concrete is sent down from the roof through long bore holes. By B

The business end of Tunnel 3. Long pipes are inserted into the soil forming a frame, the earth is removed and support arches inserted. At least that's how I understood it!

Workers move a steel support arch into place. The air pipe is just visible on the left. While everyone else looked comfortable, the diesel fumes were a bit much for us.

The worker ants of tunnelling machinery - the Porclain, hope I got the spelling right!

A welder remains busy as a support arch is put into place. By B Vohra

Gumboots are a must in the tunnel, along with hard hats.

View from the top of the Katra end of Tunnel 3 - a bridge, followed immediately by Tunnel 4

A smooth alignment is very much a hands-on process!

The river between Tunnels 3 & 4 has been pressganged into contributing stone and sand for the national cause. Photo by B Vohra

The humungous Bridge No. 20, which at 95 m will be higher than even the Panvelnadi Viaduct in the Konkan.

Girders are being readied for launch - see how tiny the cars look in comparison.

The approach to Bridge No 20, from the Udhampur side. The short tunnel beneath our feet opens onto the bridge.

Yet another major bridge, just before Katra.

The Katra station house under construction - set at a higher level than the platforms, with the route to the Viashno Devi shrine clearly visible in the background.