The Woman Behind the World’s Tallest Rail Bridge: Dr G Madhavi Latha’s 17-Year Mission

Image Source: The Financial Express

Dr G Madhavi Latha, a professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, has become a key figure behind the world’s highest railway bridge—the Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir. Her 17-year journey with the project stands as a testament to perseverance, expertise, and innovation in Indian engineering.

Key Highlights:

Dr Latha joined the Chenab Bridge project in 2005 as a geotechnical consultant, working closely with Northern Railways and the main contractor, Afcons.
Her main challenge was the region’s unpredictable terrain: fractured rocks, hidden cavities, steep slopes, and seismic activity. The bridge sits 359 metres above the riverbed, 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower.
She and her team adopted a “design-as-you-go” approach, constantly adapting plans in real time as new geological surprises emerged. This flexible strategy was crucial in overcoming obstacles that a rigid design would not have managed.
Dr Latha’s expertise was central in slope stabilisation, foundation design, and the strategic placement of rock anchors—key for ensuring the bridge’s stability against high winds, earthquakes, and harsh weather.
Her work included complex calculations, cement grouting techniques, and innovative safety systems, all tailored to the evolving site conditions.

Dr Latha’s contributions have been widely recognised. She has received the Best Woman Geotechnical Researcher award and is listed among India’s Top 75 Women in STEAM.

Today, the Chenab Bridge is not just an engineering marvel but also a symbol of national integration and progress, thanks in large part to Dr Latha’s dedication and expertise.

Source: Economic Times, NDTV, News18, Firstpost, Hindustan Times, India TV, Moneycontrol