Northern Railway suspends Kalka Shimla toy trains after landslides
Northern Railway has suspended all train operations on the famous Kalka-Shimla heritage rail section following a massive landslide and heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh. The incident took place on Saturday, August 29, 2026, causing severe soil erosion between Koti and Gumman railway stations in Solan district near Bridge Number 57. This left a portion of the narrow-gauge track hanging entirely in mid-air. Furthermore, a bridge was completely washed away between Gumman and Taksal railway stations, forcing authorities to halt all train services. Railway engineering teams acted swiftly to evacuate over 400 passengers stranded by the Saturday incident and arranged alternative transport to safely move them to Kalka. Shimla railway station superintendent Sanjay Gewar confirmed on Sunday, August 30, 2026, that all 10 narrow-gauge toy trains scheduled for the day were cancelled.
Cancelled Toy Train Services
Passengers planning to travel on this scenic mountain route must note the service cancellations. Affected services include Kalka-bound trains 52452, 52460, 52456, 52454, and 52458, alongside Shimla-bound trains 52451, 52459, 52455, 52453, and 52457. These cancellations will remain in effect until the tracks are fully repaired and certified safe for travel.
Restoration Work and Safety Inspections
Railway authorities have deployed engineering teams to the site to begin urgent restoration work. Officials estimate that clearing the debris, repairing the washed-out bridge, and stabilizing the suspended track will take two to three days, depending heavily on weather conditions and civil engineering requirements. Normal train operations will only resume after comprehensive safety inspections are completed and formal clearance is granted. This unfortunate disruption comes in the wake of incessant heavy rainfall in the Parwanoo region, which has severely impacted both road and railway networks across the Ambala division. Passengers are strongly advised to check their train status before planning any travel on the Kalka-Shimla route.