Train services on the historic Pathankot-Jogindernagar narrow-gauge railway line have been officially suspended following persistent and heavy rainfall across the Kangra Valley. Northern Railway authorities announced that all operations across the entire route were halted effective Wednesday, August 19, 2026, to ensure passenger safety and protect railway infrastructure.
Key highlights regarding the service suspension include:
- Full route suspension: Operations are currently halted across the entire Pathankot-Jogindernagar section.
- Reason for closure: Heavy rainfall has led to significant accumulation of debris near the tracks and severe waterlogging at multiple locations.
- Effective date: The suspension came into effect on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
- Current status: The rail line will remain non-operational until further notice from railway officials.
Safety Measures and Track Restoration
The decision to suspend services was taken as a precautionary measure due to the challenging terrain of the Kangra Valley, which is highly susceptible to landslides and waterlogging during monsoon conditions. Railway authorities have confirmed that the safety of passengers remains their top priority, and running trains on the affected section under these conditions would pose a significant risk.
Currently, dedicated maintenance crews and engineering teams are deployed along the route to assess the extent of the damage. Efforts are underway to clear the debris and drain the waterlogged areas to facilitate the safe restoration of train services. However, because the weather conditions in the region remain unstable, the railway administration has not yet provided a specific date for the resumption of services.
Advice for Passengers
Passengers who had planned travel on this narrow-gauge line are advised to stay updated through official Northern Railway announcements. Since the track will remain non-operational until further notice, travellers should look for alternative modes of transport for their commute through the Kangra Valley. Further updates regarding the restoration of the line will be issued once the tracks are declared safe for train movement by the engineering department.