Northern Railways Introduces Special Train Service Between Katra and Banihal Starting September 19

Northern Railways will operate a special train service between Katra and Banihal from September 19 to September 30, addressing travel disruptions caused by the Jammu-Srinagar highway closure. The train will stop at several stations along the route.

The Northern Railways is set to introduce a new train service between Katra and Banihal stations. This service will operate for 15 days starting from September 19. It aims to provide a safe travel alternative after the Jammu-Srinagar national highway was closed. This closure has disrupted regular traffic, prompting the need for additional transport options.

Previously, on September 8, Northern Railways launched a special local train between Katra and Sangaldan. This was to assist passengers stranded due to the highway closure in Udhampur district. The new service will run from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Banihal until September 30, according to Senior Divisional Operations Manager Uchit Singha.

Train Schedule and Stops

The train from Banihal will depart at 11 am and reach Katra by 1.30 pm. It will make stops at Reasi, Bakkal, Dugga, Sawalkot, Sangaldan, Sumber, and Khari stations along its route. The return journey from Katra will start at 1.45 pm, arriving in Banihal at 4.10 pm. Both directions will have the same station stops.

Senior Divisional Operations Manager Arish Bansal emphasised the importance of passenger safety and convenience. "The safety and convenience of passengers is our top priority in the division," he stated. With road services halted in Banihal and Katra areas, this train offers a crucial alternative for public travel.

Operational Decisions and Support

The decision to run this special train was made under the guidance of Divisional Railway Manager Vivek Kumar. Support came from Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal and Senior Divisional Operations Manager Arish Bansal. Their combined efforts aim to ensure smooth operations during this period of disruption.

This initiative follows severe weather conditions that have caused significant road traffic disruptions in the Jammu division of Northern Railway. Heavy rains and waterlogging have damaged roads, necessitating alternative transport solutions like these special trains.

Community Demand and Approval

The introduction of this service responds to requests from local residents and state authorities. The demand for reliable transportation has been high since road conditions worsened due to adverse weather. The approval of this train service reflects efforts to meet community needs effectively.

In light of these challenges, Northern Railways continues to adapt its services to ensure public safety and maintain connectivity across affected regions.

With inputs from PTI