In this diarist’s opinion, the June 6 inauguration by Prime Minister Modi of the Chenab Rail Bridge (CRB) linking Jammu with the Kashmir Valley is an accomplishment of far greater magnitude than sending an Indian astronaut into space in an American rocket to live in an American space station. CRB, under-girded by a spectacular circular shining steel orb is of modest length (1,315 metres). But from its reinforced steel foundation embedded in rising hillsides on both banks of the River Chenab, it soars heavenward to 359 metres, 35 metres higher than Paris’ Eiffel Tower.
Yet while one experiences a rare thrill that indigenous engineers certified by one or more of India’s 3,500 engineering colleges have finally implemented a showcase project, justifiable pride is sicklied o’er by chills of apprehension about the capability of Indian Railways personnel to maintain and service this engineering marvel. Also about the capability of the RPF (Railway Protection Force) to provide adequate security to CRB, sited in a region that’s a happy hunting ground of Kashmiri separatists and terrorists sent over the border by Pakistan. In the past year, there have been four major train accidents under the watch of Indian Railways with 42 fatalities and 94 seriously injured. And Kashmir has experienced three major terrorist attacks /incidents (including one in Reasi) in which 42 civilian lives have been lost, 66 injured with considerable damage to public infrastructure and property.
The plain truth — as evidenced by potholed roads, collapsing bridges and government buildings countrywide — public property maintenance culture is conspicuously lacking in Indian society. Therefore while the construction and commissioning of the Chenab Railway skybridge is a matter of national pride, it’s fingers crossed whether it will be maintained and protected with required care and diligence.
