The iconic Kalka-Shimla Toy Train is going environment-friendly. The Ministry of Railways is planning to introduce a hydrogen-powered train on the UNESCO World Heritage route as part of its efforts to promote greener rail transport. Here’s more about it.
Kalka-Shimla Route To Get Hydrogen Toy Train
The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train is a famous, historic mountain railway in northern India that runs between the town of Kalka and the beautiful hill station of Shimla. It was built by the British in 1903, and even today, it is considered an iconic route. But now, the Ministry of Railways is planning something big. According to The New Indian Express, officials are planning to introduce a hydrogen-powered toy train on the UNESCO World Heritage route to reduce pollution and promote cleaner transport.
The initiative is part of the government’s ‘Hydrogen for Heritage’ programme, which aims to introduce hydrogen-powered trains on selected heritage routes. You would like to know that, unlike conventional diesel trains, hydrogen trains use fuel-cell technology to generate electricity, with water as the principal by-product.
Also Read: After Nearly 4 Years, Himachal’s Underrated Kangra Valley Toy Train Is Back On Track
Iconic Route Passes Over 900 Bridges
According to The New Indian Express, in 2023, the Union Government announced plans to operate 35 hydrogen trains, including one on the iconic Kalka-Shimla route. And the plan is moving ahead steadily. The 120-year-old railway line needs specialised engineering solutions to support hydrogen technology. The reason? The mountainous terrain and steep gradients.
However, the introduction of the hydrogen-powered toy train is subject to approval from the Railway Ministry, technical feasibility and the completion of procedural requirements. The 96 km Kalka-Shimla railway line passes through 103 tunnels and over 900 bridges across the Shivalik Hills. It is one of India’s best-known heritage railway routes.
This is definitely a great step towards making India’s iconic railway route greener, right? Have you ever taken a ride on this route? Do share your experience in the comments section below!
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Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/Ronil Baruah
FAQs
Where is the Kalka-Shimla railway line?
The railway line running through the Himalayan foothills connects Kalka in Haryana to Shimla in Himachal Pradesh.
Is the Kalka-Shimla route getting a hydrogen toy train?
Yes, the Ministry of Railways is planning to introduce a hydrogen-powered train on this heritage route.
Where is Shimla?
Shimla is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh.
