*Snowfall disrupts rail services in Kashmir, Banihal–Baramulla trains cancelled*
Srinagar, Jan 23, : Rail services on the Banihal–Baramulla section were disrupted on Friday as authorities cancelled key passenger trains due to heavy snowfall across parts of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.
According to an official communication issued early Friday morning, Train No. 74613, operating from Budgam to Banihal, and Train No. 74614, running from Banihal to Budgam, were cancelled owing to adverse weather conditions and heavy snow accumulation along the railway track. The decision was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety amid continuing snowfall.
Railway officials said snow accumulation on tracks and reduced visibility made train operations unsafe, prompting the suspension of services for the day. The cancellation affected daily commuters who rely heavily on the Banihal–Baramulla rail link for travel between south, central and north Kashmir.
The rail disruption comes amid a broader spell of severe weather that has impacted road and air connectivity in the region. Several major roads, including the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, were also closed earlier due to snowfall, while strong winds since Thursday evening caused widespread damage to property, power lines and infrastructure across many localities.
Officials from the Indian Railways said train services would remain suspended until weather conditions improve and tracks are cleared and declared safe for operations. Passengers have been advised to check the latest updates through official railway channels before planning travel.
Authorities have urged inhabitants to remain cautious during the ongoing winter spell, as further disruptions to transport services cannot be ruled out if snowfall continues.
