Ganga Erosion Hits Malda Division: 19 Trains Cancelled
The Eastern Railway's Malda Division is currently grappling with a massive operational crisis. Severe erosion caused by the Ganga River has compromised the Sahibganj-Barharwa rail section, forcing authorities to take drastic measures to ensure passenger safety and manage the crumbling infrastructure.
Massive Cancellations and Diversions
As of October 3, 2026, the railway administration has been forced to cancel 19 passenger and express trains. The impact of the river's movement has not been limited to cancellations; several long-distance services have also been diverted or short-terminated to avoid the affected zone. To mitigate the inconvenience caused to commuters, the railway has introduced five special passenger trains.
Additionally, some services scheduled for October 3 and 4 have been rescheduled to commence from alternative stations. The disruption, which initially began on September 30, 2026, has escalated significantly. By October 2, the down line had remained closed for four consecutive days. While up-line services continue to operate at limited speeds, the down line remains completely suspended as a precautionary safety measure. On October 2 alone, reports indicated that 22 trains were cancelled and four were diverted.
Engineering Battle Against Strong Currents
Engineering teams are working around the clock to halt the ongoing erosion, but the natural elements are making the task incredibly difficult. Efforts to stabilize the area using 50 wagons of boulders have been severely hampered by high water levels and the powerful currents of the Ganga.
Authorities even considered