Indian Railways has approved a project worth ₹238 crore for slope stabilization, tunnel rehabilitation, and bridge safety works on the Jammu–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra rail section.
Under this project, measures will be undertaken to strengthen slopes at vulnerable locations, address issues related to water seepage in tunnels, carry out bridge safety-related works, and implement other necessary safety protocols.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that this decision reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring safe and reliable rail connectivity in one of the country’s most geographically challenging regions. He noted that these safety and rehabilitation works were sanctioned following a detailed assessment of cuttings, bridges, and tunnels. He added that these initiatives would bolster the long-term safety and reliability of this strategically vital rail section.
According to the Railways, this section has historically faced difficult geographical terrain, fragile geological structures, and extreme weather-related challenges. Despite these hurdles, Indian Railways has successfully maintained smooth operations through timely infrastructure development and robust engineering.
With the implementation of these new safety and rehabilitation projects, this route will become even safer and more resilient than before, thereby providing improved and reliable rail services to the millions of devotees and passengers who travel along this route every year.
