Train disruptions hit pilgrims from Punjab; 65 trains between Jalandhar and Jammu cancelled
19 trains temporarily suspended for coming days, and six trains have had their schedules revised
PTC Web Desk: In a move that has disrupted travel plans for thousands, including pilgrims from Punjab visiting the revered Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, the Indian Railways has cancelled 65 trains between Jalandhar and Jammu due to essential track repair work near Jammu Tawi Railway Station.
In addition, 19 trains have been temporarily suspended for the coming days, and six trains have had their schedules revised. Overall, the operations of 90 trains have been impacted, causing significant inconvenience for travellers, particularly from Punjab, a key region for Vaishno Devi-bound devotees.
Railway officials cited maintenance and repair work as the reason for the disruptions. Among the cancelled trains that serve Punjab are: Patna to Jammu Tawi, Tirupati to Jammu Tawi, Bandra Terminus to Jammu Tawi, Hazur Sahib Nanded to Jammu Tawi, Jammu Tawi to Sealdah, Indore to Shaheed Tushar Mahajan Express
Rescheduled services
Several key trains, including those frequently used by Punjab-based passengers, have been rescheduled. Notable among these are: Dhanbad to Jammu Tawi Special (rescheduled for January 18, 21, 25, and 28), Amritsar to Katihar Express, Howrah-Amritsar Mail, Golden Temple Mail, Amritsar Swarna Shatabdi Express.
The disruptions have significantly affected the travel plans of pilgrims heading to Mata Vaishno Devi from Punjab, with many forced to seek alternative arrangements.
Passengers are urged to verify train schedules and plan accordingly. The railway authorities have assured that repair work is progressing swiftly to minimise inconvenience and restore regular operations at the earliest.