Soil erosion threatens heritage Shimla-Kalka railway bridge

A bridge on the iconic Shimla-Kalka toy train route has lost critical foundational support due to soil slippage caused by sustained heavy rain in the region. The damage, identified between Koti and Gumman stations, has left portions of the track structure vulnerable and raised concerns about the integrity of the 96-kilometer heritage line.

The slippage occurred as persistent rainfall destabilized soil supporting the bridge's foundation, gradually eroding the earth beneath the track bed. Officials from the Indian Railways, which operates the narrow-gauge line, discovered the subsidence during routine inspections and have begun assessing the extent of the damage.

The Shimla-Kalka railway, constructed in the 19th century, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains a vital transport link for the hill station region. The line typically experiences operational challenges during monsoon season, when heavy precipitation increases the risk of landslides and soil movement in the Himalayan foothills.

Railway authorities have not yet announced service disruptions, though engineering teams are likely to conduct detailed surveys before determining whether speed restrictions or temporary closures are necessary. Repairs to bridge foundations in this terrain typically require careful planning due to the challenging topography and the need to preserve the heritage structure's historical character.