Matheran Toy Train Remodelled into Steam Locomotive
Matheran Toy Train Remodelled into Steam Locomotive
Scheduled to commence its journey in June, the train will traverse a 21-kilometre route through the lush forests of the Western Ghats, from Neral to Matheran.
18th May 2024
Railway enthusiasts and aficionados of steam engines have cause for celebration, as the Central Railway (CR) has undertaken a historic initiative. They have transformed the appearance of the existing diesel engine of the Matheran toy train into a steam locomotive, preserving its original charm dating back to its inception in 1907.
This marks the first time that such a transformation has been carried out, ensuring that the iconic train retains its authentic allure for generations to come.
While the Matheran toy train’s appearance has been revamped to resemble a steam engine, it will continue to operate on diesel fuel. Scheduled to commence its journey in June, the train will traverse a 21-kilometre route through the lush forests of the Western Ghats, from Neral to Matheran.
Comprising six coaches in total, including three second-class coaches, one vistadome coach and two second-class cum luggage vans, the train offers a range of travel options. Ticket prices vary depending on the class, with fares for ordinary class ranging from ₹50 to ₹160, while luxury class tickets are priced at ₹1,352.
On 16th May, the locomotive was transported to Matheran via road for assembly. According to CR officials, the decision to refurbish the NDM-1 locomotive, a narrow-gauge locomotive, aimed to enhance the thrill of mountain railway travel and imbue the iconic toy train with a sense of heritage.
“A special team of engineers and technicians at Parel workshop have modified the steam engine hood and made necessary changes so as to ensure smooth running of the engine, and at the same time maintain the heritage look as well. The engine has been painted in red and green to retain its original look,” said a CR official.
The endeavour to give the locomotive a heritage appearance entailed a series of intricate technical procedures. This included the removal of existing engine hoods, the fabrication and installation of new hoods resembling heritage steam locomotives, modifications to the current diesel engine and the integration of steam vapour and sound-producing systems.
The Neral-Matheran toy train, renowned among tourists, operates at a leisurely speed of 10-15 kmph, requiring approximately three hours to traverse the 21 km route. CR officials noted that the popularity of these toy train services surges during the summer vacation period.
