New Delhi, May 19 (H.S.): The Indian Railways has approved a ₹238 crore project for slope stabilisation, tunnel repairs, and safety works on the Jammu–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway section under Northern Railway.

The initiative aims to strengthen the long-term safety and reliability of this strategically important railway corridor.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the move reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring safe and dependable rail connectivity in some of the country’s most difficult terrains. He added that after a detailed assessment of cuttings, bridges, and tunnels, safety and rehabilitation works have been sanctioned.

The project includes slope stabilisation, mitigation of water leakage in tunnels, safety-related works on bridges, and other precautionary measures at vulnerable locations. According to the Railways, these measures will significantly enhance the structural strength and operational safety of the Jammu–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra rail section.

The Ministry of Railways stated that the route has long faced engineering and operational challenges due to difficult terrain, adverse geological conditions, and extreme weather events. Despite these challenges, Indian Railways has successfully ensured timely execution of works and developed robust infrastructure in the region.

Once implemented, the project is expected to further strengthen and secure the route, improving the safety and reliability of rail services for the millions of pilgrims and passengers who travel on this line every year.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar