ATTOCK: Train services on the Attock–Mari Indus-Multan railway section were temporarily suspended on Friday after heavy rainfall triggered a landslide between Jhamat and Chhab railway stations in Attock’s Jand tehsil, blocking the railway track and leaving passengers stranded.

According to railway sources, mud and debris fell onto the track following the downpour, prompting authorities to halt rail traffic as a precautionary measure. One train was reported stranded near Tunnel No 129, while the 202-Up passenger train was stopped at Jhamat Railway Station.

The disruption caused inconvenience to hundreds of passengers, particularly women, children and elderly people.

Several passengers complained about the lack of basic facilities during the unexpected delay. Female passengers traveling on the affected train said they faced difficulties due to the shortage of drinking water and uncertainty regarding the resumption of services.

“We understand that safety comes first, but passengers should be provided with drinking water and timely updates during emergencies,” Zahura Batool, a passenger, told this correspondent.

Another traveler, Bisma Khattak, said families with children were particularly affected by the delay. “Many people had not prepared for a long stop. There should be arrangements for water and refreshments when trains are stranded,” she said.

Another passenger, Sanaullah Niazi urged railway authorities to improve emergency response mechanisms for travelers. “Passengers are anxious because they do not know how long the delay will last. Regular announcements would help reduce concerns,” he added.

Railway officials confirmed that emergency maintenance teams were immediately dispatched to the site to clear the debris and restore train operations.

“The track was blocked due to rain-induced landsliding. Our technical staff worked continuously for hours to remove the debris and ensure the safety of train operations before allowing traffic to resume,” a railway official said.

He confirmed that the track was cleared at around 6pm on Friday after a final safety inspection.

Published in Dawn, June 20th, 2026