News Brief
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Welcomes Modern NDM‑6 Diesel Locomotives After Successful Trials
Darjeeling toy train
The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has completed the final trial of its newly procured NDM‑6 Diesel‑Hydraulic Locomotive (DSL) for the iconic Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR).
The downhill trial run, conducted from Darjeeling to Siliguri with three coaches, was successfully completed on Monday, following an earlier uphill test from Siliguri to Darjeeling, PTI reported.
NFR confirmed that two more NDM‑6 diesel locomotives are also under procurement and will soon join the fleet.
The addition marks a major step towards enhancing both safety and efficiency on the narrow‑gauge heritage line, which was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 for its unique engineering and cultural significance.
The newly designed NDM‑6 locomotives are tailored for mountain railways like the DHR. They come equipped with advanced safety mechanisms and deliver greater reliability compared to older models.
Their induction is expected to improve operational performance across the steep and winding terrain while ensuring smoother and more sustainable journeys for tourists and local commuters alike.
NFR stressed that the development represents a balance between preserving the heritage appeal of the Darjeeling railway and adopting modern engineering standards.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, affectionately called the “Toy Train,” has long been a draw for travellers worldwide, offering breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas.
However, ageing infrastructure and rising demand have created challenges in recent decades. The arrival of the NDM‑6 fleet is expected to ease these concerns without compromising the historic character of the route.
NFR reiterated its commitment to the “preservation and modernisation of heritage railway systems like DHR,” ensuring the legacy of the line continues for future generations.
