With multiple cloudbursts and landslides, Himachal Pradesh has faced the wrath of monsoon this season. Keeping the incessant rainfall and weather department’s warnings in mind, the toy train services between Kalka and Shimla remained closed for the third straight day on Wednesday, September 3. Read to know more details.
Kalka-Shimla Toy Train Services Suspended
The heavy rainfall and several landslides in Himachal Pradesh have caused various damages in many regions, especially in Shimla. Train tracks remained blocked in the city, and tourism and taxi businesses are the worst hit, according to Hindustan Times. Amid the heavy rainfall, the authorities have decided to suspend the iconic Kalka-Shimla Toy Train services till September 5. The toy train in Himachal Pradesh that runs on the route between Kalka and Shimla was introduced in 1903. It holds a heritage and cultural value and has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
Compared to other tracks, this train runs on smaller tracks. However, due to the uncertain and crucial condition in the state, the services are temporarily closed. Various roads and other infrastructure have been damaged across Himachal Pradesh. Also, a part of the track has collapsed near Datiyar in Solan district. Other repairs and debris cleaning have already started.
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Damages In Himachal Pradesh
Hindustan Times reported that tourism in Himachal Pradesh has been severely affected. Many taxi drivers in the state are finding it difficult to maintain their daily expenses. Due to roads being blocked and train services remaining closed, the taxi drivers are not taking any tourists. The authorities have already given orders to begin the restoration work, especially around the toy train track. However, with rainfall in the region showing no signs of stopping, it remains uncertain when the train services will resume.
As per Outlook Travellers, the State Disaster Management Authority has confirmed that three people have died in Shimla due to the recent landslide. On Monday evening, over 788 roads, including national highways, remained closed. We hope Himachal Pradesh recovers from these challenges soon and the toy train services resume at the earliest.
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Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/ Ronil Baruah