Kalka-Shimla Heritage Railway Operations Paused Indefinitely Due to Landslides, Expected Resumption on September 5

The Kalka-Shimla heritage railway line, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been halted due to a landslide that occurred between Koti and Kanoh stations. Commissioned in 1903, this iconic railway line spans 96 kilometers through the Himalayan foothills and is known for its 102 tunnels, 988 bridges, and nearly 919 sharp curves.

The landslide has left thousands of daily commuters and tourists stranded during the peak monsoon season. The ongoing landslides have also resulted in the loss of at least three lives in Shimla district.

Train services have been suspended until September 5, but the suspension is expected to continue beyond this date, depending on debris clearance and weather conditions. The repeated damage to the railway line raises questions about its long-term sustainability, despite annual spending on repairs and maintenance.

Experts warn that protecting mountain railways like the Kalka-Shimla line will require long-term structural solutions due to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events linked to climate change.

The disruption of the Kalka-Shimla line is significant because it is a vital economic and cultural lifeline, ferrying over 800,000 passengers annually. Local businesses, hoteliers, and transport operators are bracing for heavy losses due to the suspension of trains for several days.

In addition to the railway disruption, over 788 roads, including several national highways, were blocked due to rain-induced landslides in 2025 alone. As of Monday evening, nearly 788 roads, including 15 national highways, remain blocked across Himachal Pradesh due to the landslides.

Railway crews are working round the clock to clear debris and stabilize vulnerable slopes. The recent landslides have resulted in unprecedented damage, with sections of the railway near Solan being washed away in August 2023, leaving a bridge dangling and services suspended for weeks.

The Kalka-Shimla Railway was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site by UNESCO in recognition of its engineering feats and cultural significance. The line, which was built over a century ago, continues to be a testament to the ingenuity of its builders and a beloved attraction for tourists and locals alike.

As the region grapples with the aftermath of the landslides, efforts are underway to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of the railway line for the future.