Shimla: With Navratri and the wider festive calendar fast approaching, Indian Railways is gearing up to boost capacity on the historic Kalka‑Shimla route. A fresh proposal to operate more trains between Dharampur and Shimla is now under review by the Railway Board, and a revised timetable is pending final approval.
Trial Run of the First Supplemental Train
Authorities plan to introduce a single extra train initially. Should passenger loads prove sufficient, a second service may be added later in the season. The objective is to give travelers greater flexibility after they disembark at Dharampur and continue their journey toward Shimla.
Bridge Collapse Limits Regular Operations
A monsoon‑induced bridge failure near Taksal has forced the Kalka‑Shimla section into a curtailed‑service mode. At present, only a handful of trains run between Dharampur and Shimla, pushing many passengers from Kalka and nearby towns to rely on road transport for the final stretch.
The reduced schedule is already operating near full capacity, and the anticipated influx of Navratri pilgrims could overwhelm the remaining slots.
Festival‑Season Crowd Expected to Jump Significantly
The added trains would be a welcome relief for tourists and devotees heading to Shimla for the celebrations. A large group from West Bengal traditionally visits the hill station during Shardiya Navratri to attend ceremonies at the Kalibari Temple.
Before the bridge incident, six daily services linked Kalka and Shimla. The subsequent cut‑back has heightened dependence on buses and private vehicles, making the proposed trains a vital alternative for those traveling from Dharampur.
Station Upgrades at Dharampur Underway
Railway engineers are constructing a dedicated service track at Dharampur station. This new infrastructure will accommodate extra coaches and enable the additional trains to be stabled locally, streamlining operations during the peak period.
According to Yashanjit Singh, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of the Ambala Railway Division, the phased rollout of the two trains is calibrated to the festive surge and rising passenger demand. The first service will be closely monitored; only if demand persists will the second train be activated.
This incremental strategy aims to expand travel options for tourists, pilgrims, and daily commuters alike, alleviating pressure on the already strained Dharampur‑Shimla corridor.
