During unprecedented crisis, Jammu Division of Northern Railway rose up to the challenge of evacuating stranded passengers, displayed a spirit of unwavering commitment

New Delhi, 01st September 2025 – In the face of unprecedented adversity, the Jammu Division has shown remarkable resilience and a spirit of unwavering determination. What began as a major disruption at multiple locations due to incessant heavy rains, landslides, and flash floods transformed into a testament to the power of coordinated action, selfless service, and compassion.

The initial days were grim. Rail traffic was suspended, key highways were blocked, and power and communication lines were down in many areas.

Thousands of passengers, including pilgrims on their way to Mata Vaishno Devi, were stranded. The sheer scale of the disruption would have been enough to overwhelm any system, but the Jammu division rose to the challenge.

Leading the charge were the dedicated staff members who worked tirelessly, putting public well-being before their own comfort. Inside the railway stations of Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, and Pathankot, railway staff, in close coordination with the Government Railway Police (GRP) and district administration, set up dedicated help desks. They weren’t just providing information; they were a beacon of hope for worried and stranded passengers. They arranged for food, water, and temporary lodging, often with the help of local NGOs and civil society groups who came forward to support their efforts. They worked round the clock to operate special trains, successfully evacuating thousands of passengers to their destinations. The sight of railway officials personally ensuring that every stranded person was looked after became a powerful symbol of their commitment.

This heroic effort was not a solo performance. It was a symphony of support from other divisions and agencies.

The Railway administration, too, played a crucial role, not just in managing the crisis but also in looking after its employees. Recognizing the immense pressure the staff was under, senior officials, including the General Manager, Northern Railway, Divisional Railway Manager, Jammu were on the ground, personally supervising operations and boosting the morale of the teams.

The Railway administration ensured that the staff had the resources they needed and that their well-being was a top priority. This visible support from the top-down created a sense of shared purpose and strengthened the resolve of everyone involved.

The story of the Jammu division in this difficult time is one of humanity’s better angels. It is a story of a community coming together, of government bodies collaborating seamlessly, and of individuals rising above their call of duty to serve others. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the spirit of service and compassion can shine through, turning a major disruption into a powerful testament to human resilience.