Shimla: With Navratri and the wider festive period fast approaching, Indian Railways is gearing up to expand capacity on the historic Kalka‑Shimla route. A proposal to introduce more trains between Dharampur and Shimla is now under review by the Railway Board, and a revised timetable is awaiting final approval.
Pilot Extra Train to Be Launched First
Officials plan to start with a single supplemental service. Should passenger loads prove sufficient, a second train may be added later in the season. The intention is to give travelers more options after they disembark at Dharampur and continue onward to Shimla.
Bridge Collapse Has Reduced Regular Operations
A monsoon‑induced bridge failure near Taksal has forced the Kalka‑Shimla line into a curtailed‑service mode. At present, only a few trains run the Dharampur‑Shimla stretch, pushing many travelers from Kalka and nearby stations to switch to road transport for the final leg.
The limited schedule is already operating near full capacity, and the anticipated influx of Navratri pilgrims could overwhelm the remaining slots.
Festival‑time Traffic Expected to Surge
The added trains would greatly benefit 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 rituals at the Kalibari Temple.
Before the bridge incident, six daily trains linked Kalka and Shimla. The subsequent cut‑back has heightened reliance on buses and private vehicles, making the proposed extra services a vital alternative for passengers traveling from Dharampur.
Station Upgrades at Dharampur Underway
Railway engineers are constructing a dedicated service track at Dharampur station. This addition will accommodate extra coaches and enable the new trains to be parked 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 remains strong will the second train be activated.
This incremental strategy aims to widen travel choices for tourists, pilgrims, and daily commuters alike, relieving pressure on the already congested Dharampur‑Shimla corridor.
