Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, September 8, 2025: The Jammu division of Northern Railways launched a special local train service between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra in Reasi district and Sangaldan in Ramban district to assist passengers stranded due to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) caused by heavy rainfall and flash floods. Operating from September 8 to September 12, the unreserved train service, with tickets priced at just ₹20, aims to restore connectivity for locals, students, and pilgrims affected by disrupted road networks.The special trains, numbered 04685 and 04686, cover a 63-km route with stops at Reasi, Bakkal, Dugga, and Sawalkot. Train 04685 departs Katra at 8:40 AM, arriving in Sangaldan by 10:00 AM, while the return service, 04686, leaves Sangaldan at 2:15 PM, reaching Katra by 3:45 PM. This initiative follows severe flooding since August 26, which damaged roads and railway infrastructure, stranding many, including Vaishno Devi pilgrims, who were earlier transported safely with provisions for food and water at major stations.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal and Senior Divisional Operations Manager Arish Bansal emphasized that passenger safety and convenience are top priorities. The service provides a critical lifeline, especially with NH-44 remaining largely closed due to landslides and flood damage. Authorities are also working to clear a landslide-blocked track between Ramnagar and Manwal to restore the Jammu-Katra shuttle service.The initiative complements broader flood relief efforts, with J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah directing damage assessments in Anantnag and Kulgam for central aid. The special trains are expected to ease transportation challenges until road connectivity is fully restored.
