Landslide Suspends Kalka Shimla Railway Services Until September 13

The UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla railway line remains suspended following a severe landslide triggered by heavy rainfall on the night of Saturday, August 29, 2026. Passengers planning to travel on this scenic route should note that operations are halted as of September 1, 2026, due to extensive infrastructure damage near Solan district. The incident occurred near Bridge No. 57, situated between the Koti and Gumman stations in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Intense precipitation caused significant soil erosion, washing away 10 to 15 meters of earth beneath the tracks and leaving a section of the line hanging in mid-air. The damage also compromised a culvert located beneath the railway infrastructure. Northern Railway officials acted swiftly to manage the crisis, successfully executing a logistical operation to evacuate more than 400 passengers and staff from the affected area by road.

Extensive Service Cancellations Imposed

Northern Railway has implemented extensive service cancellations to ensure public safety while restoration work takes place. Trains numbered 52457-58, 52453-54, and 52455-56 were cancelled through September 1. Meanwhile, services for trains 52451-52 and 52459-60 have been suspended until September 13, 2026. Shimla railway station superintendent Sanjay Gevar confirmed that a total of 10 trains have been affected, emphasizing that operations will only resume once the site is secured and declared safe for rail traffic.

Restoration Work Underway

Restoration efforts are currently ongoing, with technical teams working tirelessly to rebuild and stabilize the track foundation. Chief Commercial Inspectors Vipin Paudwal and Darshan Singh Gill are overseeing coordination with local personnel to manage the site recovery. Passengers are advised to check their train status and make alternative travel arrangements until the route is fully cleared and certified safe for operations by Northern Railway.