The Neral–Matheran toy train experienced an unusual mishap: one of its coaches derailed on Sunday evening. It is quite likely this happened because the train was exceeding its speed limit. Which, on some sections, is 5kmph. So, while the 130-odd passengers on board experienced a nasty surprise, albeit in slow motion, they were none the worse for the experience. What’s more, the train service recommenced on Monday morning, and is back in service, as it has been since 1907 — with a gap between 2005 and 2007, when it closed for repair after flood damage — carrying holiday-makers up to the hill station. Aside for an ambulance, the train is the only motorised transport permitted in Matheran.
Confirming this a senior Central Railway official explained, "The train that was restarted into service six years back has a maximum speed potential of between 20 and 25kmph. However, in the vulnerable segments of the Matheran narrow-gauge tracks it plies upon, there is a prescribed 5kmph speed limit, which may not have been followed by the driver." Chief public relations officer, Narendra Patil, said that a three member committee, comprising the senior divisional safety officer, senior divisional mechanical engineer and senior divisional civil engineer, have been entrusted with the task of enquiring into the accident and submitting its report.
The train’s low speed limit is partly because of the gradient it travels, and partly because of the age and stability of the system itself. It also does not operate during the monsoon months for safety reasons.
The line is the only narrow-gauge section of the Mumbai division; it has been more than 20 years since all other railway tracks in the state have been converted to broad gauge.
Much like the few other remaining ‘toy train’ services in the country, the train is a tourist attraction, but one that doesn’t make the railways any money. A senior railway official told The Hindu, that the railways made “giant spendings” on maintenance, operations, and staff salaries, far more than the revenues earned from the service. “Perhaps,” he said, “it is time for the service to be taken up either by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation that operates the Deccan Odyssey, or people themselves."
Any takers, whether it’s the MTDC, Matheran fans or rail enthusiasts, would find the Central Railway welcoming them with open arms. Just as long as they remember the speed limit.
