Shimla-Kalka Railway Suspension Shocks Tourism Amid Summer Season

The Shimla-Kalka railway service was suspended beyond Taradevi due to a damaged bridge from last year's monsoon. Four out of seven trains were halted, affecting Shimla's tourism during the summer. Authorities are urged to arrange alternative transportation and expedite repairs.

The Shimla-Kalka narrow gauge railway service was suspended beyond Taradevi station on Saturday as a precautionary measure following extensive bridge damage during last year's monsoon, officials reported.

In a significant blow to Shimla's tourism sector, four out of seven planned train services have been halted, leaving only two running till Taradevi and one till Kandaghat. Shimla Hotel and Tourism Stakeholders Association President M. K. Seth said, 'Travellers need not worry as the distance between Shimla and Taradevi is merely 11 km. We urge the transport department to deploy buses for commuter convenience.'

Seth criticized the prolonged delay in permanent railway repairs and questioned the railway authorities' silence on resumption timelines. A severe monsoon last year had disrupted services, damaging the track in numerous places and washing away a bridge, causing the current operational difficulties. Despite temporary fixes, the track's historical and challenging terrain, boasting 102 tunnels, presents ongoing repair challenges.

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