Toy Train to Shimla Suspended for 14 Days Due to Safety Repairs; Services to Terminate at Tara Devi Until June 12

Ambala, 29th May 2025: The iconic Kalka–Shimla toy train, a heritage marvel and favorite among tourists, will not run its full course for the next two weeks. Indian Railways has announced a 14-day operational block on the Jutogh–Summer Hill section due to urgent safety repairs, halting all services between Tara Devi and Shimla from May 30 to June 12.

During this period, trains originating from Kalka will end their journey at Tara Devi, which is nearly 11 kilometers before Shimla. Passengers will have to arrange their own transportation for the remaining stretch — a challenge given the congested Kalka–Shimla road route, particularly in peak tourist season.

Why Has the Service Been Suspended?
The decision comes as a preventive safety measure. In August 2023, a cloudburst and heavy rainfall triggered landslides that severely damaged the hillside and rail infrastructure between Jutogh and Summer Hill. While limited operations were restored, the affected section remained fragile.

With the monsoon approaching, Railways has now sanctioned a full-scale repair project worth ₹2.95 crore to stabilize the hillside and rebuild the damaged track. The section will undergo urgent restoration work over the next fortnight.

“The track was literally hanging off the cliff in places after last year’s rains. We cannot risk a repeat,” said a senior railway official involved in the project.

No Road Alternatives Provided by Railways
While many passengers expected shuttle services between Tara Devi and Shimla, railway officials clarified that they cannot provide road alternatives during this routine disruption. Current norms allow such arrangements only during emergency evacuations, not scheduled maintenance.

A Challenging Terrain and Repair Effort
Railway authorities faced difficulties awarding the repair contract, as the rugged and unstable terrain discouraged most bidders. Eventually, a contractor was finalized under a ₹2.95 crore tender to carry out the high-risk project before the peak monsoon sets in.

Impact on Train Services
The disruption will affect over seven trains on the route, including popular services like:

52457 Kalka–Shimla Rail Motor Car

52458 Shimla–Kalka Rail Motor Car

52452, 52459, 52460, 52455, 52456, and 52451

All these services will terminate at Tara Devi station until June 12. Full services are expected to resume once the repair work is completed and safety clearances are obtained.

A Beloved Heritage Journey
The Kalka–Shimla Railway, built in 1903, spans 96 kilometers through the Himalayas and is famed for its picturesque route, tunnels, and historic charm. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 and remains a top attraction for both Indian and international tourists.

Tourists planning a trip to Shimla in early June are advised to factor in this disruption and make alternative arrangements accordingly.