Suryoday Bharat Samachar Seva, Jammu : The restoration work of Rail Bridge No. 17 between Kathua and Madhupur, Punjab has been completed. Saturday, on 30 May, Commissioner of Railway Safety, Northern Railway Dinesh Chand Deshwal conducted a detailed safety inspection and speed test of the bridge. Divisional Railway Manager, Jammu Vivek Kumar and other officers were also present during the inspection.
After the inspection, CRS has approved train operations on the bridge. Train services will resume soon.
Background
Last year in 2025, heavy rainfall and floods caused the water level of the Ravi River to rise dangerously. Due to the strong current, one pillar of the bridge was partially damaged. For safety reasons, train operations on this section were stopped.
Restoration Work
Immediately after the floods, Railways started the restoration work on a war footing. The damaged pillar was rebuilt with a new, stronger foundation. Girders, deck slab and the track were also replaced.
After completion of the repair work, CRS checked the strength of the bridge, track level, and flood safety measures. The bridge was also tested by running an engine at different speeds.
Statement by Divisional Railway Manager Vivek Kumar said: “The team completed the repair work in a very short time despite difficult conditions. After CRS approval, trains on this route will run at normal speed.”
Importance of the Bridge
This bridge is an important part of the Pathankot-Jammu-Srinagar rail route. Its restoration will directly benefit passengers and freight trains traveling to and from Jammu-Kashmir. Pilgrims going to Katra and Jammu will also get relief. With the bridge restored, trains will run on time and special trains during the Amarnath Yatra and summer vacations can be operated easily.
Train Services to Resume from June
Many trains that were cancelled will resume from June, including: 12207/12208, 14611/14612, 19107/19108, 22705/22706, 12549/12550, 19415/19416, 20847/20848, 20985/20986
Other trains from 15 June
12265, 14503/14504, 22401/22402, 22431/22432, 22431/22432
Short-terminated trains from 15 June
19223/19224, 20433/20434
Jammu Division remains committed to ensuring passenger safety and continuity of rail services.
