Rain Triggers Landslides, NH Closed; Railways Runs Special Trains for Stranded Pilgrims

JAMMU: In response to heavy rainfall, landslides, and shooting stones that led to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, Northern Railway has deployed special trains to assist stranded pilgrims and tourists. The initiative aims to provide a safe and reliable alternative for those affected by the disruption.

A spokesperson for the Jammu Division of Northern Railway confirmed that the special train services were arranged to mitigate the hardships caused by the road blockage. On July 24, a special train departed from Sangaldan at 1:45 pm, making stops at Banihal and Anantnag before reaching Srinagar at 4:40 pm. The return journey left Srinagar at 5 pm and arrived at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra at 8:15 pm.

Additionally, another train (service number 74620) was extended from Sangaldan to Katra. On July 23, a separate special train operated between Srinagar and Katra. More than 1,500 passengers have availed these services so far.

Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal stated that the decision to run the special trains was taken immediately after adverse weather and road closures disrupted travel. He advised passengers to check train updates through the NTES app, IRCTC website, or the 139 helpline before commencing their journey.

The National Highway, a critical artery connecting the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India, remains closed due to multiple landslides and shooting stones triggered by continuous rainfall. Authorities are working to clear the debris, but no timeline for reopening has been announced.