Special saloons in toy trains on Neral-Matheran line a hit

“It has been noticed that tourists like to use toy trains while going from Neral to Matheran, but prefer taking a taxi or even walking while on their way back,” a CR official said.

The saloons were previously used only by railways officers for inspection. However, with a plan to boost sale of tickets on the hill railway, the CR introduced the facility for passengers too.

The saloons have been modified with provisions made for comfortable seating, especially for a small family or group of friends travelling together. A CCTV camera has been attached outside the saloon, which connects to an LCD TV inside to help passengers enjoy the scenic beauty of the hill station easily. For this, a group of five passengers have to pay only Rs 1,175.

At present CR operates six shuttle services along Neral-Matheran as only three locomotives are in working condition. CR operates seven shuttle services between Aman Lodge and Matheran.

The Neral-Matheran railway line was built in the early 20th century at a cost of Rs 16 lakh. The construction started in 1904 and the line was thrown open for traffic in 1907. Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy is credited with financing the railway line and his son Abdul Hussain Adamjee Peerbhoy for planning it.

kalpana.verma@expressindia.com