Rail traffic on the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla railway line was temporarily disrupted after a landslide occurred in the Kathlighat-Kano section. The incident forced the Shimla-Kalka Shivalik Deluxe Express (Train No. 52452), carrying 107 passengers, to stop and return to Kathlighat station as a precautionary measure.
Northern Railway arranges buses for stranded passengers
To manage the situation, the Northern Railway quickly arranged three buses to transport the stranded passengers from Kathlighat to Kalka. According to The Tribune, the buses departed at 10:24 pm, carrying 97 passengers to Kalka for their onward journey.
Kalka-Howrah Mail delayed to assist stranded travelers
To facilitate the travel of the stranded passengers, the Kalka-Howrah Mail (Train No. 13052) was delayed by an hour. Yashanjeet Singh, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Northern Railway, Ambala Division, confirmed the delay, stating it was done to ensure passengers could continue their journey smoothly.
Our Take: Quick response prevents major disruption
In our view, the Northern Railway's swift action in arranging buses and delaying the Kalka-Howrah Mail shows effective crisis management. Landslides on the scenic Kalka-Shimla route are not uncommon, but the authorities' ability to move 97 passengers by bus within hours prevented a more serious disruption. This incident highlights the importance of having contingency plans for vulnerable sections of the UNESCO-listed railway line. Passengers should remain alert to weather-related disruptions, especially during the monsoon season, and rely on official updates from the railway for alternative travel arrangements.