Tourism Takes a Hit in Himachal: Shimla-Kalka Train Services Suspended

Himachal Tourism Plunges into Chaos

Officials stated on June 22 that the Shimla-Kalka narrow-gauge railway line was closed as a precautionary measure after a railway bridge was washed out during last year's monsoon season. PTI reported an official claiming that there is no narrow-gauge service beyond Taradevi.

"Four out of seven trains have been suspended, while two trains are running until Taradevi and one til Kandaghat," said the official. Following the disruption in rail services, stakeholders in the tourism industry voiced concern about the impact of the suspension, as many visitors visit the region around this time. 

"Tourists are welcome in Shimla, and there is no need to fear because the distance between Shimla and Taradevi railway stations is only 11 km. The station is near to the major road, and we suggest that the transport department begin buses from Taradevi for the convenience of commuters," MK Seth, President of the Shimla Hotel and Tourism Stakeholders Association, told PTI.

He said that the railway authorities should have taken proactive steps to make permanent arrangements because the bridge collapsed about a year ago. "We wonder what will happen during the upcoming monsoon season," he remarked, criticizing officials. Furthermore, Seth stated that railway authorities did not specify a date for resuming train service to Shimla. Last year, torrential rains in July and August disrupted train services, causing significant damage to rail rails in several locations. In August, a landslide caused a 50-meter bridge at Summer Hill to collapse.

Services resumed in October once the impacted segments were repaired. The 96-kilometre-long UNESCO World Heritage Shimla-Kalka Railway route, known for its rugged, steep terrain and 102 tunnels (one of which collapsed four decades ago), continues to encounter operational issues due to natural dangers such as frequent rains and landslides.

Meanwhile, the Shimla Meteorological Department reported on June 22 that heat wave conditions had subsided in the state following mild to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms in numerous locations over the previous 24 hours. The department anticipates relief from the heat for three to four days. Maximum temperatures will likely fall and remain average or above normal for three to four days.