Indian Railways has restarted the train service between Kalka and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. This service was stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic. The restoration is a big relief for people living in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Chandigarh who travel for the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra.
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When did the Kalka-Katra train service restart
The service resumed on June 19, 2026. The first train of this resumed service departed on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 7:35 AM. This train, known as the Kalka–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Express (Train No. 14503/14504), is operated by the Northern Railway zone. It will now run twice a week.
Why was the service stopped and how was it restored
The train service was discontinued during the pandemic. Recently, it was delayed further due to damage to railway bridge number 17 between Kathua and Madhopur caused by flash floods. The service returned after Railway Safety Commissioner Dinesh Chand Deshwal approved the tracks following a speed trial on May 30. Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal mentioned that extra coaches are being added to handle the summer rush.
Key details of the restored service
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Train Number | 14503/14504 |
| Restart Date | June 19, 2026 |
| First Train Timing | 7:35 AM |
| Frequency | Twice a week |
| Operating Zone | Northern Railway |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Kalka-Katra train kitni baar chalegi?
Kalka-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Express (14503/14504) ab hafte mein do baar chalegi.
Train service kyun band thi?
Yeh service COVID-19 pandemic ke dauran band hui thi aur baad mein flash floods se bridge damage hone ki wajah se ruki thi.