NH-44 Closure: Northern Railway starts special Katra–Sangaldan train to ease passenger woes

Ramban, Sep 8: Amid the prolonged closure of the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44), Northern Railway’s Jammu Division has launched a special five-day train service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Sangaldan in Ramban district to provide relief to stranded commuters and pilgrims.

The highway, the Valley’s only all-weather road link, has remained shut for the past two weeks following incessant rainfall, landslides, and flood-like conditions. The disruption has paralysed road connectivity, leaving thousands struggling to reach their destinations.

To address the crisis, the special train service began operations on Monday, September 8, and will continue until September 12, subject to weather and restoration work on NH-44. Railway officials confirmed that on the inaugural day, nearly 1,000 passengers travelled between Sangaldan and Katra, including residents of Ramban’s Gool region and pilgrims returning from the Vaishno Devi shrine.

Passengers welcomed the move, expressing gratitude to Northern Railway, the district administration, and the UT government for arranging an alternate travel option at a crucial time.

The service will operate with two trains, numbered 04685 and 04686. Train 04685 departs Katra at 8:40 am and reaches Sangaldan at 10:00 am, halting at Reasi, Bakkal, Dugga, and Sawalkot. The return train, 04686, leaves Sangaldan at 2:15 pm and arrives back in Katra at 3:45 pm, covering the same stations in reverse.

Authorities said the trains will serve as an “immediate transportation solution” for passengers stranded due to the highway blockade. Special efforts were also made at major stations to provide food, water, and assistance to commuters affected by the disruptions.

Railway officials added that the temporary arrangement underscores the importance of strengthening rail connectivity in the region, especially during times when adverse weather exposes the fragility of road networks.