Central Railway has announced the resumption of the beloved mini train service in Matheran, near Mumbai, just in time for the Diwali holidays, starting from November 4. According to a release issued on Thursday, two Down services from Neral to Matheran will depart at 8.50 am and 10.50 am, while two Up services from Matheran to Neral will run at 2.45 pm and 4 pm.
These four services will operate with a total of six coaches, including three second-class, one Vistadome, and two second-class cum luggage van coaches. Additionally, the schedule for the toy train services between Aman Lodge-Matheran-Aman Lodge will see revisions beginning November 4.
On regular days, Central Railway operates six services in both Down and Up directions between Aman Lodge and Matheran, while weekends see eight services in each direction.
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The shuttle services will consist of three second-class coaches, one first-class coach, and two second-class-cum-luggage vans, as per the release.
Every year, the toy train operations between Neral and Matheran are temporarily suspended during the rainy season, from June to October, for safety reasons. However, service between Matheran and Aman Lodge, the nearest station to Dasturi Point, where vehicles are not allowed in the hill station, continues to operate.
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The Neral-Matheran toy train service boasts a history of more than 100 years and is one of India’s few mountain railways. The 21-kilometer-long narrow gauge track between Neral and Matheran winds through the picturesque hills, offering a delightful experience to passengers, and is located approximately 100 kilometers from Mumbai.
(Inputs from PTI)
