The 109-year-old toy train service between Neral and Matheran shut down permanently after a series of mishaps. The Central Railway is not willing to take on the risk of operation. There goes a wonderful experience for all age groups
The toy train between Neral to Matheran which was introduced in the 1907 has been shut, the Central Railway citing problems with the engines, locomotives, brake systems and coaches for the same. Senior CR officials took the decision to completely stop the toy train service yesterday.
The toy train derailed twice in the last week near Aman Lodge while on its way to Neral. Soon after the incident the services were suspended for a while. However, after further inspection of the Neral to Matheran route by the Central Railway, the officials decided to completely stop the services as the risk involved in the operation of the toy train had increased in the past few years.
A Central Railway Official on the condition of anonymity said, “We have taken the decision to shut the toy train services between Neral to Matheran. There were a lot of issues with the brake system, locomotives and coaches. The route has a steep lane and requires extreme attention. As a result after a series of meetings we have decided to shut the toy train service.”
Joy train,Toy train
The toy train service between Neral to Matheran was built in 1901 and commenced its operation in 1907. It was owned by Abdul Hussein Adamjee Peerbhoy, who later on sold it to the Central Railway for Rs 16 lakh. The Central Railway was in charge of its operation and would shut the toy train service during monsoon. However, the authorities are now looking at options like Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) in order to give them charge of operation of the toy train