Debris fall from Mansa Devi hill in Haridwar has disrupted the Bhim Gora railway track. Several trains were stopped, and rail traffic came to a standstill. The railway department has begun the work of clearing debris and carrying out repairs.
Haridwar: A landslide occurred on the Mansa Devi hill in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, on Monday, completely disrupting the Bhim Gora railway track. A large amount of rock and debris falling from the hill has halted the Dehradun-Haridwar rail route, causing inconvenience to passengers.
According to local residents, a part of the hill near Kali temple collapsed suddenly in the morning. The debris falling onto the railway track also damaged the iron safety nets. Such landslide incidents are common during the monsoon season due to loose soil in the hills.
Several trains stopped due to landslide
The railway administration has informed that the work of clearing debris and repairing the track has commenced. Currently, rail traffic is completely disrupted, and many trains have been halted at various stations. This is causing long waits for passengers.
The railway department stated that repairs might take one to two days. Officials have advised passengers to be patient and consider traveling by alternative means. The track has been disrupted due to landslides at this very location before, hence the railways are enhancing safety measures.
Deterioration among local residents after landslide
There is an atmosphere of apprehension among the local residents following the landslide incident. Continuous rain and water seepage in the hills loosen the soil, leading to frequent landslides. People are concerned that if the rain continues, the risk of further debris falling will persist.
Experts suggest that regular inspections and repair of safety nets are essential during the monsoon, given the risk of landslides in hilly areas. The administration has warned local residents against venturing near the railway track and the hill.
Railway repair and relief work ongoing
The railway department's team is engaged in clearing the debris and repairing the track. The tunnel and surrounding affected areas are being assessed. Officials indicate that it might take another one to two days for the track to be completely safe and operational.
In addition, the railways have made arrangements to provide passengers with information on alternative routes and timings. The department stated that safety is paramount and repair work is being carried out with utmost caution. Cooperation and understanding from passengers have been appealed for.
