Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, Indian Railways has undertaken a comprehensive and rapid response to evacuate stranded tourists from Katra.
The initiative underscores the nation’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens and visitors during times of crisis. Recognising the urgency of the situation, Indian Railways promptly arranged special trains to facilitate the evacuation of tourists. Train No. 04612 was mobilised from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) to New Delhi, departing at 21:20 hours. The train, which had an occupancy rate of approximately 67%, carried around 580 reserved passengers and an additional 180 unreserved passengers. Subsequently, another special train, No. 04614, was scheduled to depart SVDK at 13:30 hours on April 24, 2025, to continue the evacuation process.
To assist the influx of distressed tourists, Indian Railways set up helpdesks at both Katra and Jammu stations. These helpdesks were staffed with dedicated personnel who provided information, guidance, and support to the passengers. Additionally, a crowd management room was established at Jammu control, equipped with CCTV feeds from both Jammu and Katra stations, ensuring real-time monitoring and coordination. Dedicated helpline numbers were also activated to address passenger queries and concerns. Understanding the challenges faced by stranded tourists, Indian Railways, in close coordination with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and the Railway Protection Force (RPF), ensured the provision of food and water at Katra, MCTM, and Jammu stations. This initiative was crucial in alleviating the immediate needs of the passengers and maintaining order during the evacuation process.
While the primary focus of these efforts was on immediate crisis management, they also align with broader goals of creating zero-net carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable urban spaces. By efficiently mobilising resources and ensuring the safety of passengers, Indian Railways demonstrated a commitment to sustainable and inclusive urban development, even in the face of unforeseen challenges. The swift and coordinated response by Indian Railways to evacuate stranded tourists from Katra following the Pahalgam terror attack highlights the organisation’s dedication to passenger safety and crisis management. Through the deployment of special trains, establishment of helpdesks, and provision of essential services, Indian Railways ensured that the immediate needs of the affected individuals were met, reaffirming its role as a reliable and responsive public service entity.
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Indian Railways Facilitate Emergency Evacuation from Katra