Train movement has resumed on the heritage Kalka-Shimla railway track today after 70 days. But, it will take time to restore the rail service till Queen of Hills, Shimla. The track from Kalka to Solan has been made functional after repairing it.
The first train from Kalka reached Solan at 7.20 am today. About 15 passengers came from Solan in the first train. The second train left Kalka for Solan at 12.10 pm, which will reach Solan at 2.55 pm. Regular movement of both the trains will start from today.
Movement of trains was closed on the Kalka-Shimla track since heavy rains in July. Railway tracks have suffered heavy damage at many places. The railway track is hanging in the air. Railway management is busy in its restoration. But due to heavy damage it is taking more time.
After the resumption of train service, tourists from across the country will now be able to come to Solan’s famous tourist places Kasauli and Barog.
After Solan, efforts are being made to restore the railway line till Shimla.
Due to the long gap because of repair work, tourism has also suffered huge losses. Tourists are not able to reach Shimla. Hundreds of tourism businessmen in Shimla are also worried due to the closure of rail service. They are suffering through huge financial losses because of it. Ambala divisional railway manager (DRM) Mandeep Singh Bhatia said: “This is the worst damage the track, built in the mid-19th century, has ever undergone. We worked relentlessly to restart the train operations in phases.” Another senior railway official said, “The quantum of destruction on the Unesco-protected site known for its historic charm was unprecedented this time.”