MATHERAN: The Neral–Matheran toy train, fondly called the “Queen of Matheran”, is set to return to the tracks after its annual monsoon break. Railway teams have cleared landslide debris from the hill section and completed repairs on the line.
Every year, Central Railway suspends the 21-km Neral–Matheran service from June 15 to October 15 for passenger safety. During this period, only the shuttle service between Aman Lodge and Matheran keeps running.
This monsoon, heavy rain set off landslides at several spots along the route. The biggest came down on September 22 near the Ganpati temple on the ghat section, after about 110 mm of rainfall, leaving boulders, stones and red soil piled across the tracks. Railway staff cleared the debris on a war footing and have since finished the necessary repair work.
When will the toy train run again?
The train service is expected to resume between October 15 and October 20, around Dussehra, once the railway administration completes its final technical inspection and gives the green signal.
Safety checks under way
With the rain easing and conditions improving, railway officials are carrying out a technical inspection of the Neral–Matheran line. The track, bridges and landslide-prone points are being checked to make sure the train can run safely. Painting and allied work has also begun at Matheran station.
A boost for tourism
The toy train is central to Matheran’s tourism. The heritage line winds through tight curves in the forested hills, and for many visitors the ride is the highlight of a trip to the vehicle-free hill station. Local residents and traders hope the restart will bring tourists back ahead of the Diwali holiday rush.
Travellers are advised to check the latest Central Railway timetable before planning a trip.