Shimla: The final trial run of the panoramic coach and the diesel hydraulic Multiple Unit (DHMU) train set was successfully completed on the UNESCO‑listed Kalka–Shimla railway. This was a crucial step before their introduction into commercial service. The inspection was carried out by the chief commissioner of railway safety (CRS), who examined operational and passenger safety parameters on the historic hill route.The panoramic coach was tested between Kalka and Barog, while the DHMU train set underwent trials on the Barog–Shimla section. The coach departed Kalka at 12:50pm and reached Barog at 3pm. Soon after, the DHMU train left Barog at 3:26pm and arrived at Shimla station at 6:20pm.The CRS team focused on boarding and alighting arrangements, seating safety, emergency equipment, and braking performance. Special attention was given to uphill gradients, where the air‑braking system was tested to ensure safe operation under challenging hill conditions. The train was also run on ascending sections to evaluate its overall performance and identify any shortcomings.Senior railway officials, including the commissioner of railway safety and Ambala divisional railway manager Vinod Bhatia, were present during the inspection.Officials said that the CRS team will submit its report to the Railway Board in 15 days. Subject to approvals, the panoramic coach and DHMU train set are expected to begin commercial operations shortly.The DHMU train set consists of three interconnected coaches, each with a seating capacity of 60 passengers. A key feature is the ability for passengers to move freely between coaches without disembarking.Currently, six trains operate on the Kalka–Shimla narrow‑gauge line, which experiences heavy tourist traffic, especially in summer. The addition of the panoramic coach and DHMU train set is expected to improve passenger experience and boost tourism on the heritage route.Hill Slip Disrupts Rail TrafficRail traffic on the Kalka–Shimla route was disrupted on Saturday night after a hill slip occurred at kilometer marker 68/13 between Kathlighat and Kano stations. Railway authorities acted swiftly, arranging alternative transport and clearing debris overnight to restore services.Train No. 52452 (Shimla–Kalka Shivalik Deluxe Express), carrying 107 passengers, was halted near the affected section and safely brought back to Kathlighat station. Officials ensured constant communication with passengers through the onboard travelling ticket examiner and telephone updates.To facilitate onward travel, Northern Railway arranged three buses at Kathlighat station. The buses departed at 10:24pm, transporting 97 passengers to Kalka station. At Kalka, passengers were provided food packets and drinking water. The departure of Train No. 13052 Kalka–Howrah Mail was delayed by 60 minutes to accommodate the affected passengers.The buses reached Kalka around 12:30am, after which passengers continuing on the Kalka–Howrah Mail were safely boarded.Restoration work continued late into the night as teams cleared debris from the track. After inspection, normal services resumed on Sunday morning, allowing trains to operate smoothly once again.Northern Railway expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and thanked passengers for their patience and cooperation. Officials emphasised that swift, coordinated action ensured safety and minimised disruption on the heritage line.
