The Indian Railways has breathed new life into the steam engines of the iconic toy-train that traverses the picturesque landscape of Matheran. Operated by the Mumbai-based Central Railway, the Neral-Matheran toy-train holds significant popularity among tourists. Celebrating 116 years of service, the Neral-Matheran Light Railway stands as one of India's cherished Heritage Mountain Railways, initiating its first steam engine-powered journey in 1907. The endeavour to restore the nostalgic charm of this narrow-gauge railway involved intricate technical processes. This included dismantling existing engine hoods, crafting and installing authentic heritage steam locomotive hoods, retrofitting the current diesel engines, integrating steam vapour and sound simulation systems, and finally adorning the engine with the newly designed heritage hood, complemented by custom stickers. The extensive restoration process aimed to revive the heritage essence while ensuring operational efficiency, said a spokesperson from Central Railway. The Matheran toy train has garnered overwhelming patronage, generating revenue exceeding Rs 30 million and accommodating over half a million passengers. Looking ahead, Central Railway is poised to resurrect the illustrious legacy of this narrow-gauge railway by bestowing a 'heritage steam engine look' upon the current diesel-driven locomotives traversing the Neral-Matheran route. The construction of the Neral-Matheran railway commenced in 1904, with the inauguration of the two-feet gauge line occurring in 1907. As a precautionary measure, the railway suspends operations during the monsoon season, although shuttle services between Aman Lodge and Matheran persist even amidst the rain. Matheran, translating to ?forest on the forehead?, was given by Hugh Poyntz Malet, the then district collector of Thane, in May 1850. Lord Elphinstone, the Governor of Bombay at the time, laid the groundwork for its development as a prospective hill station. Initially established by the British as a retreat from the scorching summer temperatures, Matheran blossomed into a sought-after destination. The Matheran Hill Railway, envisioned by Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy and inaugurated in 1907, has become an emblem of this tranquil retreat. Visitors to Matheran can engage in a myriad of activities such as hiking, trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, valley crossing, nocturnal expeditions, and birdwatching, immersing themselves in the natural allure of this enchanting locale. (Source: Deccan Herald)