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Darjeeling toy train incurring heavy losses

         Siliguri (West Bengal): The toy train running between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling in Bengal is incurring heavy losses as landslides frquently block and damage the tracks, and also restrict train movement. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) in Siliguri has over the past five years been facing losses to the tune of Rs 60 m annually. It spends nearly $2.5 m annually for the upkeep of the tracks, and its revenue recovery from tickets is less than $24,630. To counter losses, the authorities are requesting tour operators to make the railway more popular among the people by giving it for hire for social functions, which they believe will boost the revenue collection. "The DHR financially is losing a lot of money. That is why we are requesting the tour operators. We have some responsibility to make it financially viable also," said Subrata Nath, Director of DHR. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railways (DHR) is famous for its non-engineering construction. It has three loops and six "Z" reverses on the entire line, which turns the concept of engineering on its head. The track goes up and down the slopes till it reaches the tea-abode of Darjeeling. There are no tunnels on the 88-kilometre track.

         The DHR, which runs the toy train was conferred World Heritage Status in 1999. It was the second railway line in the world to be declared a UNESCO heritage site, the first being Zemerin in Austria. The DHR route passes through Ghum, the second highest railway station in the world situated at a height of 7407 feet. The engineering marvel used by DHR was an inspiration to several mountain railways in the world. The 126-year-old railway is called "Toy" because of its miniature size and snail pace speed compared to regular locomotives. The train still maintains its quaintness with wood compartments and no brakes. It travels at a slow speed of ten kilometres per hour. The DHR was the result of the sole effort of Frankin Prestage, agent of the then Eastern Bengal Railways, who not only envisioned it, but also played a major part in its construction.
- September 18,  2007