Major relief for J&K passengers as flood-hit rail bridge reopens

Train connectivity between Jammu and the rest of the country is set for a major boost as the damaged Rail Bridge No. 17 over the Ravi River between Kathua and Madhopur (Punjab) has been fully restored and cleared for operations. Following safety approval by the Commissioner of Railway Safety, several trains suspended after last year’s devastating flash floods will resume services from June.

Commissioner of Railway Safety, Northern Railway, Dinesh Chand Deshwal conducted a detailed safety inspection and speed test of the bridge today. Divisional Railway Manager, Jammu Vivek Kumar and other officers were also present during the inspection.

After the inspection, CRS has approved train operations on the bridge. Train services will resume soon.

An announcement by the railways said that many trains that were cancelled will resume from June, including; 12207/12208, 14611/14612, 19107/19108, 22705/22706, 12549/12550, 19415/19416, 20847/20848, 20985/20986.

Other trains from 15 June; 12265, 14503/14504, 22401/22402, 22431/22432, 22431/22432

Short-terminated trains from 15 June; 19223/19224, 20433/20434.

Heavy rainfall and floods last year caused the water level of the Ravi River to rise dangerously. Due to the strong current, one pillar of the bridge was partially damaged. For safety reasons, train operations on this section were stopped.

Immediately after the floods, Railways started the restoration work on a war footing. The damaged pillar was rebuilt with a new, stronger foundation. Girders, deck slab and the track were also replaced.

After completion of the repair work, CRS checked the strength of the bridge, track level, and flood safety measures. The bridge was also tested by running an engine at different speeds. 

Vivek Kumar said: “The team completed the repair work in a very short time despite difficult conditions. After CRS approval, trains on this route will run at normal speed.”

This bridge is an important part of the Pathankot-Jammu-Srinagar rail route. Its restoration will directly benefit passengers and freight trains traveling to and from Jammu-Kashmir. Pilgrims going to Katra and Jammu will also get relief. With the bridge restored, trains will run on time and special trains during the Amarnath Yatra and summer vacations can be operated easily.