The Northern Railway has decided to restore train services on the historic Pathankot-Baijnath-Paprola-Jogindernagar narrow gauge railway section from June 2, bringing major relief to passengers in the Kangra valley region. According to an official press note issued by the Jammu division of the Railways, all restored trains will resume operations from June 2.
Under the revised schedule, the train (52465) will depart from Pathankot at 5 am and reach Baijnath-Paprola at noon while the train (52467) will leave Pathankot at 7 am and arrive at Baijnath-Paprola at 1:40 pm. On the return journey, the train (52470) will depart from Baijnath-Paprola at 2:15 pm and reach Pathankot at 9:45 pm whereas the train (52474) will leave Baijnath-Paprola at 3:40 pm and arrive at Pathankot at 10:50 pm.
All four trains will halt at several important stations, including on the Dalhousie road, Nurpur road, Jawalamukhi road, Kangra, Palampur Himachal, Panchrukhi and other intermediate stations along the route.
The railway authorities have also restored train services between Baijnath-Paprola and Jogindernagar. The train (52473) will depart from Baijnath-Paprola at 8 am and reach Jogindernagar at 9:35 am after a halt at the Ahju station. On the return journey, the train (52472) will leave Jogindernagar at 12:50 pm and arrive at Baijnath-Paprola at 2:30 pm.
Besides, special services will operate between the Nurpur road and Baijnath-Paprola stations as well as between the Jwalamukhi road and Baijnath-Paprola stations, stopping at all intermediate stations. Railway officials have advised passengers to confirm the detailed timetable through the nearest railway station, helpline or official websites before commencing their journey.
The restoration of services on the scenic narrow gauge line is expected to benefit daily commuters, students, employees and tourists visiting the Kangra valley. The revival of the rail services is also likely to boost tourism and trade in the region.
