DHR launches new round-trip train service between Kurseong and Mahanadi

REZA PRADHAN

DARJEELING,: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) on Sunday launched a round-trip train service between Kurseong and Mahanadi to cater to tourists visiting the region.

The service will feature the steam-hauled ‘Red Panda’ at noon and the diesel-hauled ‘Muktadhara’ in the afternoon.

The special service was inaugurated at Kurseong railway station by Ramesh Kumar, Assistant General Manager of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), who performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“The Kurseong-Mahanadi train service has been introduced for tourists. A steam-hauled train will operate a round trip at 12 noon, while a diesel-hauled train will run at 3.15 pm. Our main aim is to cater to tourists visiting from different places and allow them to enjoy the beautiful scenic views along the route,” said Rishab Chaudhary, DHR Director.

He said there had been a demand for the service for some time. The steam joy ride will cost Rs 1,500, while the diesel ride will cost Rs 1,000.

The director also said there were plans to further develop Giddepahar, located along the route, as a tourist destination. A short halt at the spot on every trip is also being considered.

On Sunday, the diesel-hauled ‘Muktadhara’ departed from Kurseong station for Mahanadi at 3.15 pm and returned to Kurseong at 5 pm.

Kumar said the new service would give a boost to tourism in Kurseong.