Pathankot-Joginder Nagar Rail Service Restored

June 5, 2026

The rail service connecting Pathankot to Joginder Nagar had been suspended 46 months ago due to flooding. It is a well-known fact that rail travel is invariably more affordable than bus travel, and the general public also finds it to be a more convenient mode of transport. Recently, developments occurred that led to a surge in religious tourism in this region, extending as far as Baijnath.

Consequently, the government, too, found it necessary to turn its attention to this lucrative railway route in order to replenish its coffers. A long wait has finally come to an end. After nearly three and three-quarter years, the faces of passengers lit up with joy as they once again traveled by train. Previously, traveling by bus on this same route would cost approximately Rs 400; however, a passenger can now travel all the way to Joginder Nagar on this train for a mere Rs 40.

Upon the resumption of services, a 7-coach narrow-gauge train was the first to embark on its journey through Himachal. The first train departed from the City Narrow Gauge station at 5:00 AM, followed by the second at 7:00 AM, both bound for Baijnath. Within Himachal, the operation of this train service commenced at 8:30 AM from the Kangra Railway Station. A particularly welcome piece of news is that the bus fare to Baijnath—which previously stood at Rs 340—has now dropped to just Rs 34 for the train journey.

The bridges situated along the PunjabHimachal border have also been restored following necessary repairs. These bridges had been damaged during the floods of 2022, resulting in the complete disruption of rail connectivity across the entire region. Now that rail connectivity has been re-established, it will not only boost public confidence but also enable people to undertake affordable and economical journeys.

Now that this rail service has finally resumed, the government should also address and fulfill certain other pending demands. Firstly, the casual laborers currently employed by the railways should be regularized—or granted permanent status—through appropriate means. As far as the issue of staff shortages is concerned, this is a challenge that plagues not only the railways but virtually all public services across India. Therefore, priority should be given to resolving the staff shortages at these specific railway stations