Jammu: Indian Railways approved Jammu-Katra safety works worth ₹238 crore to strengthen long-term rail safety and infrastructure reliability on the Jammu-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra section of Northern Railway.
The sanctioned works include slope stabilisation, tunnel rehabilitation, bridge protection and treatment of seepage issues at vulnerable locations along the route. Officials said the project would improve operational safety on the strategically important rail corridor.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the approved measures reflected the government’s commitment to maintaining safe and reliable railway connectivity in difficult terrains.
He stated that authorities sanctioned the protection and rehabilitation works after conducting detailed assessments of tunnels, bridges and hill cuttings on the section.
According to the Railway Ministry, the Jammu-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra route has faced several engineering challenges because of adverse geological conditions and extreme weather events. However, Indian Railways continued to strengthen infrastructure through timely interventions and resilient construction practices.
The ministry said the latest approval would further improve the route’s ability to handle weather-related risks and operational pressures.
Jammu-Katra safety works target vulnerable rail stretches
Officials said the project would focus on critical stretches vulnerable to landslides, water seepage and structural stress. The rehabilitation measures will also improve the durability of tunnels and bridges along the section.
In addition, engineers will carry out specialised slope protection works to reduce risks caused by unstable terrain in hilly areas. Authorities expect these interventions to improve passenger safety and ensure smoother train operations.
The Railway Ministry highlighted that millions of passengers use the Jammu-Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra route every year for pilgrimage and tourism purposes. Therefore, strengthening the infrastructure remains a key priority for Indian Railways.
Ashwini Vaishnaw said the approved works would enhance the long-term reliability of the section and support safer travel in one of the country’s most challenging railway corridors.
Officials added that Indian Railways would continue monitoring vulnerable infrastructure locations and undertake preventive engineering measures whenever required.
