The iconic Darjeeling toy train, originally scheduled to resume service on the NJP-Darjeeling route on September 21, has faced another delay of 10 days due to natural calamities. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway director Priyanshu Kumar announced that the service is now expected to start on September 30. The region has been further affected as National Highway 10, connecting Sikkim and Kalimpong, remains closed following the disaster, raising concerns about its impact on the tourism industry ahead of Durga Puja.
The persistent heavy rains have caused landslides, disrupting the vital Siliguri-Sikkim lifeline and causing severe damage to the railway line in Darjeeling. The NJP-Darjeeling toy train service had already been halted for months after the tracks were damaged by heavy rainfall in July. Despite an earlier announcement to resume operations on September 21, environmental challenges forced a postponement.
This isn’t the first setback for the toy train. It has experienced prolonged disruptions in the past, including during the political unrest in the region in 2017 and again during the COVID-19 pandemic. The monsoon season has added to its challenges, leading to a three-month suspension this year. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the toy train is a key tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across the world.
Kumar assured that repair work on the damaged tracks is ongoing and is expected to be completed soon. However, the disruption has dampened the spirits of tourists, especially as Durga Puja approaches—a peak season for mountain tourism. The closure of National Highway 10, which has been blocked for two days due to erosion caused by the Teesta River, further complicates the situation. Engineers are working to restore the road, but progress is slow, particularly in the rocky Shweti Jhora area, where night work is not feasible.
With the festive season fast approaching and the beloved toy train service still on hold, the tourism industry faces significant setbacks at a time when businesses rely heavily on holiday travellers.