Train services on the Banihal-Baramulla railway section in Jammu and Kashmir were suspended on Saturday as heavy snow blanketed the tracks, disrupting connectivity across the region. Officials confirmed that the suspension would last until at least 1 PM, as efforts to clear the snow were underway.
According to railway authorities, persistent snowfall and substantial snow accumulation on the tracks made it unsafe for train operations. “Due to heavy snow accumulation on the track and ongoing snowfall, train services on this section will remain suspended up to 1 PM on Saturday,” an official statement read.
To expedite the resumption of services, a WDM locomotive equipped with a snow cutter has been deployed to clear the tracks. The locomotive will run along the affected stretch to ensure the tracks are fit for train movement, officials added.
The Banihal-Baramulla rail line, which serves as a crucial lifeline for passengers and freight in the Kashmir Valley, often faces disruptions during the harsh winter months. Heavy snowfall in the region has not only impacted railway operations but has also caused difficulties in road transport and other essential services.
Weather forecasts indicate that snowfall may persist in the coming days, prompting authorities to remain on high alert for further disruptions.
With inputs from PTI