Shimla: In a significant development, train services on the revered Kalka-Shimla railway track have partially resumed, marking a promising step towards complete restoration. Two trains traversed the route between Kalka and Tara Devi station in Shimla on Tuesday after an interruption lasting more than two and a half months.
Heavy monsoon rains and landslides had led to the disruption of train services on the Kalka-Shimla rail line. However, following successful trials on Monday, train services between Kalka and Tara Devi have been reinstated. Senior railway officials anticipate a full restoration of train services from Kalka to Shimla within the next 10 days.
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Naveen Kumar, the Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM) of Ambala division, Indian Railways, said that the restoration work encountered unexpected challenges but is progressing as planned. The bridge installation at Summerhill, which had been swept away by a landslide, has also been successfully completed. If everything proceeds as expected, train services are set to fully resume within the next 7 to 10 days.
The heritage track recently saw the resumption of train services from Kalka to Solan on September 20th. Now, with trains operating between Kalka and Tara Devi station, travellers have a reason to celebrate after a 78-day hiatus.
In August, the Ministry of Railways allocated Rs 15 crore for the repair and restoration of the Kalka-Shimla rail line. According to railway records, the track sustained damage at 175 different locations, including a bridge near Summer Hill in Shimla.
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Constructed during the British colonial era, the 96-kilometer Kalka-Shimla railway line is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond being an engineering marvel, this railway line is the best way to enjoy the natural beauty of the hill state in all its glory.
As the train chugs along the Kalka-Shimla railway line, it offers passengers a rare opportunity to experience the stunning vistas that Himachal Pradesh has to offer, making it a perfect travel experience for tourists. Along the way, it passes through 18 stations, 102 tunnels, and 988 bridges. The impending full resumption of train services is sure to rekindle the magic of this iconic railway for travellers and rail enthusiasts alike.
