Kangra Rail Service Crisis: Tension is escalating rapidly over the continued suspension of train services on the historic Kangra valley railway line. Public representatives and local bodies have now issued a stern warning to the authorities, signalling an intensification of protests if rail operations are not resumed without further delay.
Rajya Sabha MP Anurag Sharma has formally extended his support to the Kangra Valley Rail Sangharsh Samiti. On Tuesday, he joined the protesters on the Jwalamukhi road at Ranital and issued a clear ultimatum to the railway authorities. He demanded the restoration of train services by May 17, failing which a major protest would be organised in New Delhi.
Interacting with members of the sangharsh samiti, Sharma expressed deep concern over the severe hardships faced by residents due to the snapped rail connectivity. He stated that the Union Ministry of Railways had failed to fully comprehend the gravity of the issue despite repeated requests from the region.
The MP pointed out that the disruption was caused by damage to bridges and tracks, but the subsequent restoration work has been delayed unreasonably. He asserted that the people of Himachal would not tolerate any continued neglect of the railway services and warned of a larger agitation if the May 17 deadline was ignored.
Constructed between 1926 and 1929 during the British era, the Kangra valley railway line stretches over 164 km and features 950 bridges and two tunnels. It was rebuilt at a cost of around Rs 13 crore. Despite crores being spent on its maintenance and repair annually, the route now remains non-operational for several months every year.
Local stakeholders have voiced profound frustration over the situation. Residents highlighted that the line is not just a vital transport link but also a crucial source of livelihood for hundreds associated with tourism, small businesses, and daily commuting. One local resident demanded the immediate start of partial operations, questioning the inaction of elected representatives. Other residents openly criticised both state and Central leaders, particularly Kangra MP Rajiv Bhardwaj, for allegedly not giving the issue the attention it deserved.
Serious concerns have also been raised over the crippling economic impact. Taxi operators, vendors, and small shopkeepers dependent on railway traffic are suffering significant losses. Locals fear that the continued delay in restoring this lifeline can further weaken the region’s already fragile economy.
