Matheran Toy Train to Undergo ₹5 Crore Upgrade Ahead of Monsoon

 Safety First: Monsoon Shutdown of Neral-Matheran Service

As the monsoon season approaches, the beloved Neral-Matheran toy train service has been suspended due to safety concerns. Heavy rains have caused soil erosion along the tracks, making them unsafe for operation. In response, Central Railway (CR) has announced a significant upgrade plan that will cost ₹5 crore and is set to enhance the railway’s resilience against monsoon conditions.

 Planned Upgrades for a Safer Journey

The picturesque 21-kilometer route, often compared to Darjeeling for its scenic beauty, has faced annual challenges during the rainy season. To mitigate these issues, CR will construct bunds in areas prone to waterlogging. Ongoing efforts include using JCBs to clear accumulated soil from the tracks, with services anticipated to resume after October 15.

Passenger services along the Neral-Aman Lodge section have been suspended since June 8, with plans to reopen following the monsoon. Each year, the relentless rains wash away ballast and erode soil, damaging the narrow-gauge lines. To prevent future disruptions, CR is replacing small pipe bridges with reinforced cement concrete (RCC) boxes and installing channels to ensure smooth water flow down the hills.

Infrastructure Enhancements Underway

Officials have identified 19 bridges that will receive significant upgrades, including the installation of cement concrete boxes to enhance stability. The project also includes reinforcing the banks and slopes around these structures and repairing existing bridge walls.

Additionally, the anti-crash barriers, crucial for preventing derailments, will be refurbished and coated with anti-corrosive paint to prolong their lifespan.

 Timeline and Budget

All proposed works are expected to take approximately 12 months to complete, starting from the awarding of contracts following the tender process. The total investment of ₹5 crore aims to ensure the safety and reliability of the toy train service, making it a dependable attraction for tourists even during the monsoon season.