The Ambala Railway Division has announced an extension to the suspension of train operations on the iconic Kalka-Shimla heritage route due to ongoing monsoon challenges. Travellers planning to visit the hills should note the following updates regarding their travel plans:
- Train services cancelled until August 5, 2026.
- Affected trains include Shivalik Deluxe Express (52451/52452) and Him Darshan Express (52459/52460).
- Suspension stems from persistent heavy rains and high landslide risks.
- Low passenger occupancy during the monsoon season also influenced the decision.
Safety Concerns on the Heritage Route
Following the previous cancellation that was initially valid until July 28/29, the Railway Board has decided to keep the tracks closed for an additional week. This precautionary measure is taken to ensure the absolute safety of passengers, as the UNESCO World Heritage route remains vulnerable to debris falling and track instability caused by relentless rainfall. A senior official from the Ambala Railway Division confirmed that the decision aligns with the weather alerts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for Himachal Pradesh.
Operational Status and Future Updates
Beyond the immediate safety concerns related to landslides, railway authorities noted that the decision was also practical given the low passenger occupancy typically seen on these services during the peak monsoon period. The tracks are currently under constant surveillance, and maintenance teams are monitoring the stability of the route.
Railway officials have clarified that services will only resume once weather conditions normalize and the entire stretch of the track has been thoroughly inspected and cleared for safe operation. For those holding tickets for the affected dates, it is recommended to keep a close watch on the official IRCTC website or the Indian Railways enquiry portal for real-time updates and information regarding ticket refunds. Passengers are advised to avoid making immediate travel plans to the region until an official announcement regarding the restoration of services is made.