Special train from Katra to Delhi to help stranded tourists after Pahalgam attack

In a swift move to assist tourists and pilgrims stranded after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, Indian Railways has announced a special unreserved train from Katra to New Delhi, scheduled to depart at 9:20 PM tonight. This urgent arrangement comes in response to the surge of visitors desperately trying to leave Jammu and Kashmir.

Himanshu Upadhyay, Chief Public Relations Officer of Northern Railway, confirmed the development, emphasizing the need to provide immediate assistance to those affected. "Considering the urgency, we have arranged a special train covering multiple key stations," he said.

The special train will begin from Sri Vaishno Devi Katra, halting at Udhampur, Jammu, Pathankot, Jalandhar, Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Panipat before reaching New Delhi by 9:30 AM Thursday morning. It will comprise seven general coaches, eight sleeper coaches, and three AC coaches to accommodate passengers from all walks of life.

The move comes amid widespread panic among tourists following the brutal attack that left 26 people dead. Reports have indicated that many visitors, shaken by the violence, are urgently seeking to cut short their trips and return home.

Northern Railways also confirmed they have contingency plans ready. "If passenger numbers exceed expectations, additional special trains will be deployed immediately to ensure safe and swift evacuations," Upadhyay assured.

As the nation grapples with shock and grief, every effort is being made to bring stranded tourists home safely, reflecting the spirit of unity and swift action in the face of tragedy.