NFR Trials New Diesel Loco for Darjeeling Heritage Line

06 Aug 2025 CW Team

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has successfully completed the final trial run of the newly procured NDM-6 Diesel-Hydraulic Locomotive (DSL) for the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR). According to a press release on Monday, the trial was carried out on the downhill stretch from Darjeeling to Siliguri, using three coaches.

This follows a previously successful uphill trial run from Siliguri to Darjeeling.

NFR confirmed that two more NDM-6 diesel locomotives are currently under procurement and will be added to the DHR fleet soon.

The NDM-6 locomotive has been specifically designed for narrow-gauge heritage railways such as the DHR. It features advanced safety mechanisms and improved performance capabilities, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency on the UNESCO World Heritage stretch. This upgrade will support safer and more sustainable travel across the scenic hill terrain.

These trial runs form part of standard safety and performance assessments prior to the locomotive’s regular deployment.

This move represents a significant milestone in maintaining the historical appeal of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway while integrating modern engineering improvements. NFR reiterated its commitment to preserving and modernising heritage railway networks like the DHR.

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